MURRAY BRIDGE GOLF CLUB

NEWS LETTER – June 10

(Editor – KG )

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CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS

Congratulations once again to our 2010 Club Champion Jeff Morgan (photo) who defeated Peter Phillips 7/6.

B Grade Champion….

Don Ruggerio defeated Brett Ireland 7/5.

C Grade Champion

Brian Mumford defeated George Langsford 4/2, and

The Veterans Match-Play Championship was won by

Brian Smyth who defeated Phil Bartlett 1up.

CLUB JUNIOR CHAMPION

Our 2010 Junior Championship is a new face in Ryan Anderson who carded scores of 78 – 77. Congratulations Ryan, I see a great future ahead.

MENS FOURSOMES CHAMPIONS

Congratulations go to Ray Morris & Con Jones with score of 78. Runners Up, were Jeff Morgan & Darryl Barnett with 79 on C/B from Sid Robbins & Peter Phillips also on 79.

PENNANTS

Congratulations to the GREEN team on winning this year’s Local Pennant Flag.

Men’s Interclub Pennants in their first match against Victor Harbor (at V-H) were not so lucky going down 6/1. Its early days. Next week we play at home against McCracken.

Ladies Pennants in their 1^st year of Div 1, although very competitive, didn’t go as well as hoped, finishing in 6^th position.

Match – Play. This is a test of your skill against your opponents' luck!

HANDICAP SYSTEM

The new system has been up and running for several weeks now. Some like it and some are not so impressed, but I’m pretty sure its here to stay for a long while, so we may as well get used to it. I guess time will tell as to its success and in the interim period we’ll all remain totally confused. Just wait till we get our new course rating system up and running, then I‘m sure we’ll be even further mystified.

RACECOURSE RUMOURS

There have been many rumours and talk about the redevelopment of the current race course. Some of these rumours mention that part of this redevelopment will include the Golf Club and that the developers have already drawn up plans to include the redesigning of the golf course.

A delegation from the golf club committee has, as recently as Monday the 8th of June, met with the assigned developers, the Rural City CEO Damien Maloney, and Murray Bridge Racing Club representatives to discuss the current situation. At this meeting it was made very clear that no such drawings or plans have been undertaken at this stage.

The development of the new race course equestrian precinct is on track.

The developers and the CEO Damien Maloney have agreed to keep the golf club in the loop with future planning. This planning may or may not include the possibility of the golf club increasing the size of the course. However, if you take the opportunity to read our new strategic plan, you will see that the committee view any redevelopment of the race course as having exciting possibilities for the future of our club.

BRONZE SALVER

The Bronze Salver is listed for Tues July 20^th to Thurs 22^nd. Although it involves lady players it will, as in past years, be viewed as a positive “joint” project for the club and our aim is to excel in every aspect. Please check the notice board for volunteer men required to assist with raking of bunkers. Depending on fields the Men’s regular Wednesday comp may be cancelled this week, however check with men’s Match Committee or Pro shop for any alternative arrangement.

SUBS

No doubt you have received your annual account for Subs renewal. We gently remind you that payment is due 31^st July. Any person wishing to pay by instalments please see Manager Stephen.

If you really want to get better at golf, go back and take it up at a much earlier age.  

9 HOLE MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY

9 hole golf is a fresh incentive currently driven by Golf Aust. in an attempt to revitalise club membership numbers and to get more people involved in this great sport. It is targeting those who simply haven’t got the time to play a full round of golf and to also retain some of our aging members who struggle to complete a full 18 holes. Our Committee have seen the need to keep up with the times and to encourage as many players as possible. In so doing we have introduced a 9 Hole membership Category (on a trial basis). This option is open to any person. The subs rate will be 65% of full membership ($448). Restrictions however will apply as to when 9 hole competitions can be played within the field, 9 holes will be the absolute maximum allowed per day and handicaps will still be maintained by golf link. We do not envisage many takers, but once new players get ‘hooked’ on the game, we will surely benefit in the long run. Should this trial prove successful we will move to ratify the addition at our AGM in Oct.

NEW MOWER

Out with the old. In with the new. Yes our brand new greens mower valued at $38,500 is up and running. We sold the old one to Tailem Bend G.C. By our calculations that’s 53 full memberships spent on one item.

NEW GROUNDSTAFF MEMBER

I extend a belated welcome to Michael Smith who has been with us a few months now. Michael is working approx 30 hours a week and is well and truly entrenched in the job.

Golf balls are like eggs. They're white. They're sold by the dozen. And you need to buy fresh ones every week!

GROUNDS UPDATE

(Mal’s notes)

After late but welcome rains, the course has responded quickly. The cooler wet conditions have given grounds dept a chance to fully renovate all bunkers, spray encroaching kikuyu around greens and remove quickly declining pine trees. The pines around 16^th green, 1^st fairway & 11^th green died from a fungal disease which seems to be attacking old trees in hot climate areas. Murray Bridge course is not alone as Glenelg & Royal Adelaide are also loosing trees to this disease. It starts out as a few growing tips on ends of branches looking dry, then the whole

tree - quite quickly. This disease is only attacking the one species of pine “Pinus radiata”. Next time you stand on 2^nd green, look towards the 10^th green and observe how quickly that tree has deteriorated. Also watch the old pines at 17^th green / 18^th tee area where early signs of this disease are also evident.

Over the next few weeks we will be planting trees and shrubs between 15^th / 16^th fairways to one day help protect the 16^th tee block and cut out approaches to 15^th green.

Good to see “Parbsy” back on deck with the Thursday volunteers. These lads have been very busy sprig / sodding Santa Anna couch into bare areas on fairway edges. The previous winter we trialled this on 12^th – with success even with a very dry start. Thanks to Wally Bonython for your donation of sanded Santa Anna sods on 10^th fairway. Over next few weeks we are looking to continue renovating more bare areas and replace rotten sleepers on 7^th, 16^th & 17^th tee blocks and Mumfy will continue to sweep/blower vac around the clubhouse, which he has quoted as saying …. “Like painting the Sydney Harbour Bridge”

A special thanks also to Don Ruggerio for making his time and very precious machinery available to rip and cut the Casuarina roots at 7 & 13. This has worked a treat and grounds are continuing isolated root removal at 3 & 10 over the coming weeks. Thanks again Don.

Thanks also to Mal Pitcher for his effort with the flail mower and while I’m on the subject of thanking members, Gary Pearson has also done a great job repainting our GUR signs

Well done to all championship winners. Shame the final day weather was suspect, but we need that rain. Good golfing to all.

Cheers, Mal Grundy.

MARKETING & SOCIAL COMMITTEE

Just to put you in the picture, our club “Marketing/Social Committee” structure has been reinstated and the following members have offered their services to this group; President Malcolm Blight, Bruce & Geraldine Clough, Meg Dillon, Maureen Johnson & Julie Leane. If you would like to be an active member with this group, feel free to contact Malcolm or Stephen.

Counting on your opponent to inform you when he breaks a rule is like expecting him to make fun of his own haircut!

MURRAYLANDS JUNIOR SUCCESS

Recently we had 3 of our Murray Bridge up and coming junior golfers, in Ryan Anderson, Nick Anderson & Alex Albanesi, represent the Murraylands Golf Assoc. at the South Australian Junior Sand-Greens Championships held in Kadina. They were joined by Swan Reach brothers Doug and Pete Johns to make up our team for the group event, with the individual championship also run in conjunction.

In dismal weather conditions, our boys produced some excellent golf to win the team’s event with Doug Johns also winning the individual event following a 3 hole sudden death playoff. Our Murray Bridge boys performed exceptionally well in their first representative team and even broke their handicaps. Well done!

CONSTITUTION CHANGES / SPECIAL MEETING

Our club constitution is definitely outdated with several ‘legislation’ changes required to keep up with modern times and current club policies. With that in mind we have reactivated a working party that has spent many sessions revamping the entire document. These sessions are nearing completion and we expect to hold a Special Meeting prior to the AGM to sanction the changes. Full information will be posted well in advance of the special meeting to hopefully ‘nip any buds’ beforehand and streamline the meeting. We’ll keep you posted.

The less skilled the player – the more likely he is to share ‘his’ ideas about ‘your’ golf swing.

MOTHER’S DAY RAFFLE

Lucky winners were Meg DILLON 1^st prize and Carrol MASSINGHAM 2^nd prize.

SPECIAL JUNIOR OPEN EVENT

This year our Junior Open has been scheduled on a separate date to our normal Sunday Men’s Open. The date will be Friday 8^th October (School Holidays). A special feature to be played in conjunction with our event will be the State Qualifying round of the 2010 Australian Secondary Schools Teams Championship. The winning school team will qualify for the National Final held in Sydney during the Aust Open in early Dec. Hopefully this feature will attract many more boys & girls and get our Junior Open back to the popular Anzac Day fields of the past.

FREE GOLF – MEMBER’S GUESTS

The current policy of allowing members to invite up to 5 visitors each year to play free golf, is now restricted to only those membership categories with ‘voting rights’. Categories without voting rights are as follows: Provisional, Affiliate, 1^st Year, Junior, Student & Social.

Don’t know about you, but I’ve always wondered….

………How is it possible to have a ‘civil war’?

COMMUNITY COACHING

Community Coaching is the latest Golf SA incentive to further promote our game and increase memberships. All SA clubs are encouraged to become actively involved in this project and help out in some form or another. Obviously one man alone (Alan Telford – SA Development Coach) cannot cover all areas. Fortunately Ray Morris has offered to take this project on for Murray Bridge and help coordinate the schools and general “learn to play golf” coaching sessions required. Ray’s past input with junior coaching is exemplary and I have no doubt will continue. Trusting all members will support Ray and the club with this project and offer to help out whenever possible. If you would also like to go that one step closer to getting involved in this activity, please come and see Ray or Stephen or myself (KG) for further details. Many thanks Ray for your voluntary contribution.

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

While on the subject of volunteers……

Although the AGM is not until 25^th October, this gentle reminder gives you time to give serious thought into coming on board as a committee member for the 2010-11 period.

STRATEGIC PLANNING & RISK MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

With the valuable assistance and experience of new committee member in Roger Wickes, our committee is on the verge of signing off our newly formed Club Strategic Planning & Risk Management documents. We encourage any interested members to read our office copy and any constructive comments are always welcome.

EMAIL DATA BASE

I know we’ve asked for your email details before but its time to up-date them or at least ensure we have the correct details. If you would like to be kept updated on what’s happening around our club, please jot your email down on a piece of paper and hand it in to the office, or simply email your details direct to us on mbridgegc@internode.on.net . This facility will also assist in keeping our postage expenses down for newsletters etc. We hope to put out newsletters now on a quarterly basis.

AHEAD OF HIS TIMES

Now let’s see…… We’ve got Plasma, LCD, PC’s, Lap Tops, Mobile Phones, I Phones, & now I Pads. Not to mention Email, Web sites, Google, Text messages, Face Book, Twitter, and Skype. And there’s probably a lot more I’ve missed..

It seems only yesterday we saw Dick Tracey with his talking wristwatch. !!

EAT AT YOUR CLUB

Chance to win a Toyota Yaris ??

Effective forthwith, the first 100 people to ‘book’ a table on a Friday night in our Fairways Bistro are eligible for a free ticket in the “Win a Yaris” competition. This competition is currently being run by the Local Traders Association, with 1^st Prize being a Toyota Yaris and numerous other prizes of great $ value.

All you have to do is ‘ask’ for your free ticket when you order your meal. It’s an opportunity not to be missed. Drawn 28^th. August 2010. (Offer limited to 1 ticket per person)

TEE TIMES – PRO SHOP AUTHORITY

In recent times there have been a few groups of just two players hitting off amongst the fields. It’s bad enough having to play in a group of three, let alone a group of two. Whether the cause is simply a lack of entries or late minute cancellations, the Pro Shop Staff have authority to split any groups before or after to compensate and at least make up a group of three. We ask all members to be aware of this authority and graciously comply with any directions of Pro Shop staff.

On the other hand any group of more than 4 can only be sanctioned by Pro Shop staff or Club Captains, and players run the risk of disqualification should they choose to ignore these rules.

VOUCHER FORMAT

For info to all - the Men’s system is not a casual distribution of competition vouchers on an ad-hoc basis. There is a set formula strictly adhered to in all instances.

On Saturdays there is an overall “Winner of the Day” plus A, B & C Grade Winners and Runners-up. Any remainder vouchers available, (according to number of entrees) are distributed on a score basis only. (Not grade basis)

Wednesday comps are similar, but without the grade system.

Consequently it is quite common to see higher handicappers get vouchers in Stableford and Par comps, whereas Stroke comps tend to pay out the lower handicappers more often.

COLLECTORS CARDS

Barry Stacey has a large collection of Golf Cards to hand over to any interested ‘collector’. A lot of history and wide coverage I believe. Contact Barry direct on 8532 2209.

DO’s & DON’TS

Bunker Rakes: The correct replacement position is in the centre of the ‘flat raked’ area, with either end pointing directly at the flag.

Divots: Simply fill to ground level and use your boot to impact and level out evenly – Don’t overfill.

Plug Marks: Please repair all plug marks, particularly when our greens are soft and wet.

Motor Cycles / Carts Players are reminded to PLEASE keep well clear of all mounds and approach areas to greens and to keep to paths where possible. Please also be aware of sensitive areas, such as the freshly sodded areas.

Buckets – Please don’t leave lying around in car park, breezeway etc.

Trivia

The “Ambrose” Comp. was named by the Secretary Manager of Victor Harbor G.C. in honour of Richard & Mary Ambrose, Americans from Michigan who took up residence in the area and who on the 31^st of March 1968 first introduced this style of game to us all. ……True Story…..

Coming LADIES Events

(July)

Fri 2^nd TAILEM BEND Open

20^th – 22^nd LADIES BRONZE SALVER

(August)

Fri 6^th MAMMUM Open

Fri 13^th LAKE ALBERT Open

Mon 16^th Tue 17^th LADIES CHAMPS

Coming MEN’S Events

(June)

Sun 27^th KAROONDA Open

(July)

Sun 4^th TAILEM BEND Open.

Sun 11^th SWAN REACH Open

Sun 18^th LEGACY DAY

Sun 25^th CAMBRAI Open

(Also 2010 MURRAYLANDS Open)

(August)

Sun 1^st MANNUM Open

Sun 15^th LAKE ALBERT Open

Sat 28^th LAMEROO OPEN

CLUB CHAMPS FORMAT

Having received some verbal criticism from one or two members about our current Saturday Match Play-off format, our Men’s Match Committee have agreed to review same, in the hope to ensure the majority of members are happy. Should any other members have any constructive suggestions of change, we would like to hear from you, preferably in writing. Alternatively if you are happy with the current format we would also like to hear your thoughts.

How do you rate yourself as a putter??

SAM PUTT LAB

The Sam Putt Lab is one of the leading putting analysis systems in the world and is used by a number of leading tour players to monitor their skills on the greens. We are fortunate to have access to such a quality system until the end of the month, giving each of you the opportunity to have a full putting analysis done with a hard copy of the analysis reports to take with you. This system will enable you to determine exactly where you need to improve your stroke with instant feedback on the day on how simply you can do it. See Michael in the Pro-Shop for further details or a demonstration.

A "gimme putt" can best be defined as an agreement between two golfers...neither of whom can putt very well.

NEW MEMBERS

Since my last newsletter in Dec 09 the following members have joined…………..

Andrew Hollond Student

Luke Woods Student

Patrick Woods Student

David Crouch Provisional

Vince Albanesi Pay as Play

Brad Hunter Student

Stuart Hunter Student

Ryan Squires Student

Leighton Vogt Student

Michael Potts Sporting (Football)

Robert Rue Pay as Play

Rodney Thoman 1^st year

Blake Page Student

Jarrod Lienert Student

Brad Lienert Student

Mark Woods Pay as Play

Deanne Pannell 1^st year

Donald Blenkiron Affiliate (T.Bend)

Andrew White Affiliate (T.Bend)

Lisa Hancock Affiliate (Mannum)

Dylan Barry Student

Zane Barry Student

Todd Barry Student

Jarrad Thoman Sporting (Fooball)

Andrew May Play as Pay

Neru Otinelly 1^st Year

Heath Lienert Student

John Lipp 1^st Year

Greg Lannan Sporting (Tennis)

Jed Bawden 1^st Year

Bradley Wegener Student

Michael Wegener Student

Preston Taylor 1^st Year

Ben Wilden Provisional

Ryan Aldridge Student

Jack Morgan Student

Simon Aldridge Student

Malcolm Downie Affiliate (Belair)

Matthew Lange Student

Mason Pickard Student

Alica Smith Student

Kaija Koivokoski Full (Pro rata)

Heikki Koivokoski Full (Pro rata)

Scott Hunt Student

Paul Yeomans 1^st Year

Glen Davis Provisional

Bruce Hateley Provisional

Lisa Groom Provisional

Jarrad Weyland Sporting (Football)

Richard Gigg Full

Graham Lipp 1^st Year

Wayne Skinner Full

Allen Woolstencroft Sporting (Bowls)

Leigh Hiscock Affiliate (Oakbank)

Andrew Pavey Affiliate (Oakbank)

Justin Riggs Full

Ben Hindle Student

Quentin Dohnt First year

(Hope I haven’t missed anybody………)

Welcome to you all – We trust you enjoy being a member of our great club.

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Murray Bridge Golf Club

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Monday 26th October 2009

Commencing at 7:30pm.

1. Welcome – President Malcolm Blight welcomed all members.

2. Present: Refer List of attendances

3. Apologies : Brian Mumford, Eric Scheer, Neville Gotch, Liz & Garry Hodge, Ady & Dean Wright, Ken Coventry, Graham Munt, Damian Molony, Barry Stacey, Geoff Wright, Alan & Alma Crouch, Brian Squires, Barry Dillon, Sue McQueen, Alan Massingham, Roger & Di Wicks.

4. Presentation of Men’s Winter trophies.

Captain K.Graetz addressed meeting by firstly giving mention to numerous Major Event winners, Championship Holders etc. throughout the winter season. He then made formal presentations to winners of all Men’s Group Winter Trophies including some recent Hole-In-One presentations.

5. Minutes of Annual General meeting held Monday 27th Oct, 2008

President Malcolm made reference to last year’s AGM minutes and asked for a motion to accept those minutes. C.Moore moved that the minutes be accepted as a true and accurate account, 2^nd.by S.Robbins. Motion Carried.

6. President’s Report – President Malcolm then read his report to the meeting. He then moved a motion that his report be accepted, 2^nd. by S.Robbins – Carried.

7. Amendments to Constitution & By-Laws

President Malcolm commenced presentation of the 6 recommended changes to the Constitution &

By-Laws referring to Auditors, Disbursements of Funds and Membership Categories.

The following changes were presented:

14. AUDITORS

Current wording…..

14.1 There should be one or more Auditors (not members of the Committee), who shall be approved by the members at the Annual General Meeting. Such Auditor or Auditors shall audit the accounts and have the power to call for the production of all books, papers, accounts, computer records and documents relating to the affairs of the Club. The Committee shall have the power to fill any temporary vacancy in the office of the Auditor. The Auditor shall be a registered company auditor, a firm of registered company Auditors, a member of the Australian Society of Accountants or a member of The Institute of chartered Accountants in Australia.

Alter to read….

14.1 An Auditor, who is a registered company Auditor and who is not a member of the Committee, shall be appointed annually by the Committee.

14.2 The appointed Auditor shall audit the accounts and have the power to call for the production of all books, papers, accounts, computer records and documents relating to the affairs of the Club.

The purpose of this change was explained to members as follows:

• This change arose as a result of discussions at last year’s AGM where there were doubts raised with regards to continuing with the same Auditors and a motion was passed to postpone the AGM appointment and call for tenders for the ensuing period.
• Having gone thru the process to call for tenders it became more evident that Auditors are generally now not interested in submitting quotes for just 12 months and prefer 2 – 3 year terms at least.
• Auditors generally finalise their yearly reports just before the AGM – There is no time to seek tenders of alternative Auditors for ensuing year should we wish to change
• The Manager & Finance Committee are dealing with Auditors directly throughout the financial year. Members can only go on recommendations of Committee anyway.
• Some criteria of the auditor have also been reduced. Some popular accounting firms operating within Australia are no longer Australian based companies.

K.Graetz moved above change to constitution, (Clause 14) 2^nd M.Thiele.

Matter then opened for discussion/questions. - No questions forthcoming.

Motion put to vote and was carried by more than 2/3rds majority.

17 DISBURSEMENTS.

Current wording….

17.1 Payments by cheque on account of the Club shall be made by order of the Committee and signed by any two of five signatories nominated by the Committee, one of who shall be a Committee Member.

17.2 Payments by electronic medium shall require the endorsement of one office staff signatory and one Committee Member signatory.

Alter to read…

17.1 Payment of Club accounts, by either cheque or electronic medium, shall be made by order of the Committee and signed by any two of the signatories nominated by the Committee.

17.2 The number of nominated signatories shall be no less than four (4).

The purpose of this change was explained to members as follows:

· The current constitutional instructions are not regarded as workable.

· The wording “one of whom shall be a committee member” can often create delays in wage payments, and other legally binding commitments of urgency.

· The recommended change allows both Manager & Office Clerk to facilitate payments without Committee having to make themselves personally available at committed times. (particularly payments of an urgent nature)

· The wording “made by order of the Committee” remains in place and payments are still to be applied under the instructions of the Committee.

K.Graetz moved above change to constitution, (Clause 17) 2^nd D.Royans.

Matter then opened for discussion/questions. - No questions forthcoming.

Motion put to vote and was carried by more than 2/3rds majority

NEW MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY…

OUTER REGION MEMBERSHIP (27.3)

Any person who is over the age of 18 years and resides more than 60 km from the Murray Bridge G.P.O. may be admitted as an ‘Outer Region Member’ upon payment of the Joining Fee and the Outer Region Annual Subscription and shall be subject to conditions and restrictions as the Committee may from time to time impose.

This category provides full playing and voting rights.

The purpose of this new category was explained to members as follows:

· This category was flagged and adopted at the AGM last year to provide some incentive for retaining our Adelaide based members in the declining economical times and possibly help compensate for their traveling costs. It was set at 85% of Full Membership rates – same as 6 Day member rates.

· The result has proven to be successful and we have retained the numbers. (14members)

· We now wish to formalise this new category within our Constitution.

M.Grande moved above change to constitution, (Clause 27) 2^nd C.Moore.

Matter then opened for discussion/questions.

C.Moore sought clarification on Joining Fee inclusion.

President Malcolm explained that the Joining Fee (although currently set at $zero) has been deliberately left in the wording in case we ever revert back to a charge. No further questions forthcoming.

Motion put to vote and was carried by more than 2/3rds majority.

NEW MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY…

OTHER SPORTS MEMBERSHIP (27.8)

Any person who is over the age of 18 years and has not been a playing member of the Murray Bridge Golf Club within the previous twenty four (24) months, may be admitted as an ‘Other Sports Member’ upon payment of the Joining Fee and the Other Sports Annual Subscription and shall be subject to conditions and restrictions as the Committee may from time to time impose. Such conditions shall include that the person is a current and active participate in another regular Saturday daytime sport such as, but not necessarily restricted to, Football, Netball, Tennis, Cricket or Bowls.

This category provides full playing and voting rights.

The purpose of this new category was explained to members as follows:

· This category was flagged at the AGM last year as another marketing target to new members.

· We targeted other sports (particularly younger sportspersons) in the hope to pick up members during their off season times, get them hooked on golf and hopefully retain continuation of their membership.

· This has proven most successful having picked up 23 members in this category to date.

· We now wish to formalize this new category within our constitution

S.Robbins moved above change to constitution, (Clause 27) 2^nd D.Royans.

Matter then opened for discussion/questions. - No questions forthcoming.

Motion put to vote and was carried by more than 2/3rds majority

NEW MEMBERSHIP CATEGORY…

FIRST YEAR MEMBERSHIP (27.6)

Any person who is over the age of 18 years and has not been a playing member of the Murray Bridge Golf Club within the previous twenty four (24) months, may be admitted as a ‘First Year Member’, upon payment of the Joining Fee and the First Year Membership subscription and shall be subject to conditions and restrictions as the Committee may from time to time impose.

This category provides no voting rights.

The purpose of this new category was explained to members as follows:

· This category was introduced by Committee on a trial basis in July this year as a marketing promotion for new members. It currently involves 50% payment of Full Membership for first year only but includes some restrictions to winning numerous major competitions & has no voting rights.

· Here we are particularly targeting previous members who have dropped out of golf in recent years and the likes of those social golfers who were indecisive about outlaying full membership cash. Our reasoning included getting their shoe in the door, getting them hooked and hopefully retaining them as members on a continual basis.

· Restrictions – No voting right – Not eligible for any Club Champs, Daily Winner, Group events, Medals.

· This membership only applies to their first year of golf.

· We believed this has been most successful having secured 15 members thus far.

· We now wish to formalize this new category within our constitution.

B.Clough moved above change to Constitution (Clause 27), 2^nd S.Robbins.

Matter then opened for discussion/questions.

R.Peacock queried members joining under this category 3 months before financial year ending.

S.Cock explained that Pro-Rata system would only apply if less than 6 months, then full 100% payment would be required from 1^st July.

No further questions forthcoming.

Motion put to vote and was carried by more than 2/3rds majority

BY LAW 6

Current wording….

6.2 The annual subscriptions, for all categories, shall be determined as a percentage ratio of the Full Member subscription. The following formula shall apply.

Full Member 100%

Six-Day Member 85%

Provisional Member 70%

Affiliate Member 55%

Junior Member 20%

Pay as you Play Member 25.5%

Student Member 10%

Starter Member As determined at the Annual General Meeting.

Social Member As determined at the Annual General Meeting.

6.3 The Annual Subscriptions set above may then be rounded to the nearest One dollar.

6.4 Affiliation fees fixed by and due to the South Australian Golf Association Incorporated and the Women's Golf South Australia, annual fees for member insurance and any other fees due for each playing member, shall be additional charges.

Alter to read….

6.2 The Joining Fee and the Annual Subscription for a Full Member shall be set at the Annual General Meeting. The Annual Subscriptions for all other Membership Categories shall be a percentage of a Full Member’s Subscription as follows and rounded to the nearest dollar.

Six-Day Member 85%

Outer Region Member 85%

Provisional Member 70%

Affiliate Member 55%

First Year Member 50%

Pay as Play Member 33%

Other Sports Member 33%

Junior Member 20%

Student Member 10%

6.3 Affiliation fees fixed by and due to Golf SA and Murraylands Golf Association Incorporated, plus any other fees due for each playing member, shall be additional charges.

The purpose of this change was explained to members as follows:

• Giving all categories a set percentage will set a regular pattern of percentages based on Full Membership for all playing categories rather than have inconsistencies and ad-hoc amounts each year.

K.Graetz moved above change to By-Law (Clause 6), 2^nd P.Phillips.

Matter then opened for discussion/questions.

G.Edwards queried why the 100% Full membership was missing from the new wording.

K.Graetz pointed out “Full Membership” was included in the first sentence and clarified in the second sentence where it mentions “all other membership categories”. No further questions forthcoming.

Motion put to vote and was carried by more than 2/3rds majority

1. Financial Report – President Malcolm handed over to Finance Chairperson Sue Antel who provided meeting with her Finance Report Summary for past season ending 31^st June 2009.

Sue then Moved her report be accepted 2^nd Meg Dillon

Report opened up for discussion/questions – nil forthcoming motion –Carried.

2. Subscriptions for 2010 / 2011

Recommendation from Management were displayed on screen (See attachment)

Committee recommending a 3%increase on Full Membership Subscriptions with other category increases adjusted as per the above By-Law percentages.

i.e. Full membership (including applicable fees) to be set at $674 an increase of $31.

Sue spoke on the reasons for the recommended 3% increase and also pointed out the dramatic $12 increase of Golf SA Affiliation fees this year.

Sue then asked for general discussion/questions

G.Jones queried any Buggy Room increase – advised no increase.

There being no further questions raised, Sue moved the 2010/2011 Full subscriptions be set at $674. Motion 2^nd by G.Searle and motion was carried.

3. Appointment of Auditor

Item no longer applicable in view of constitutional change above regarding Auditors Appointment.

4. Election of Officers.

President Malcolm listed committee members with 1 year still to serve.

Malcolm Blight (President)

Marg Bessen (Ladies Capt)

Graeme Munt (Ordinary Member Position) Also Grounds Chairman.

Peter Phillips (Ordinary Member Position)

Committee Nominations for the following vacancies:

Senior Vice President 2 year term Sue Antel Voted in by members.

Vice President 1 year term Ken Graetz Voted in by members.

Men’s Captain 2 year term Sid Robbins Voted in by members

Ordinary Comm. Position 2 year term Bruce Clough Voted in by members

Ordinary Comm. Position 2 year term Roger Wicks Voted in by members

Ordinary Comm. Position 2 year term Geoff Searle Voted in by members

Pres Malcolm also advised the meeting of an expression of interest for Men’s Vice Captain position from David Lubke as a Sub Committee member only.

To be confirmed at next Committee Meeting.

10. General Business. (Includes questions in writing 7 days prior to AGM as per By-Law 5.14)

Letter from Neville Gotch seeking the following:

(a) Re the $1 levee placed on playing members

· How much has been put aside for this purpose?

· On what projects has money been spent and how much?

· How much is currently available

(b) Re 10% of Poker machine profit being put aside for change of new machines

· How much money has been raised for this purpose?

· How many machines have been replaced and how much spent on machine upgrades

· How much is currently available for change over machines

The following answers were provided by manager Stephen Cocks to meeting

(a) $1 Levy questions

Levee brought into being on 1^st August 2006.

The following has been collected in this time.

Aug 2006 – Oct 2006 Nil record

Nov 2006 – Oct 2007 $7,873:00

Nov 2007 – Oct 2008 $7,840:00

Nov 2008 – Oct 2009 $8,575:00

Total $24,288.00

This levy has been spent on the following items.

· Large screen TV in sprig bar purchased in Feb 2007 cost $2,400.00

· Air conditioner July 2007 cost $4,170.00.

· Pergola 2009 – Total Cost $12,379.00

· Remaining balance at end of Sept 2009 = $7,475.00

President Malcolm advised that at this stage there were no immediate plans in place with reference to additional expenditure.

K.Graetz advised that committee have discussed possible future purchase of elaborate wind-up see thru plastic style screens for the pergola area. However it is committee’s intention not to push this at present time and wait at least a full 12mth season to assess its value.

(b) Poker Machines.

It was in April 2007 that we set up a 10% account for poker machine profit (before expenses)

This ledger is called the Poker Machine Replacement Account.

The sole reason behind this ledger was to build up a surplus for the purchase of new poker machines and new games.

At the time of setting up this account we were being told a lot of information about the future of our poker machines and were advised that by October 2008 we would have to replace up to 5 of our machines due to age. Apparently these machines would not be compatible with new technology being introduced.

Each machine was going to cost up to $22,000 to replace and new games approximately $7,000.00

To cut a long story short this did not eventuate but it is still well and truly on the cards. This is being monitored closely.

The poker machine industry has been going through some very tough times and the manufactures are now selling new machines for approximately $14,000.00 and upgraded games from as little as $2,200.00

Committee has been working closely with our Aristocrat business development Manager Aaron Mc.Clement who is keeping us up to speed with the poker machine world.

To the end of June 2009 our Poker machine replacement account had accumulated $56,676.00.

Of this $6,649.50 was used to convert the game called 50 lions to a new game called Tahiti Magic. This was done in Jan 2009.

In July 2009 Aristocrat, also after some pretty good bartering, did the following

up-grades for us.

Description

S18523 Upgrade Dolphin Treasure to our Jackpot “Shamans Magic Bonus Power”

S19848 Upgrade Arabian Nights to our Jackpot “Sweethearts 11 Bonus Power”

S21941 Upgrade Venetian Nights to our Jackpot “Luigi’s Ball Bonus Power”

S17646 Convert MK6 Double Dolphine to “Choy Sun Doa”

S21941 Supply Topper for Xcite Big Ben

S23061 Supply Topper for Xcite Dolphin Treasure

Cost of this upgrade was $8,550.00.

Normal cost of this upgrade would be approximately $28,000.00

Currently as of the end of September we still have in our Poker Machine Replacement Account $58,132.00.

The committee is very mindful of the income that is made from poker machines but at the same time is also very concerned with, the continued uncertainly of water availability.

No further General Business

11 Life Memberships

At this stage of meeting, President Malcolm announced Life Membership recommendations of the following two members.

Maureen Johnson & Max Thiele.

Recommendations were well received and approved by all members.

Both presented with a plaque and accompanying record of achievement.

Both were overwhelmed and responded their appreciation to the meeting.

No further business – meeting closed at 8:45pm.

(See attachment page for Subs recommendation sheet.)

MURRAY BRIDGE GOLF CLUB

NEWS LETTER – Dec 09

(Editor - KG)

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CHRISTMAS FESTIVITIES

First and foremost, I open the newsletter wishing all members a very Merry Christmas and trust your festive season activities are once again a safe and rewarding time. Christmas Day falls on a Friday this year and the club house will be closed but I am sure your family reunions will more than compensate. Our regular Friday night activities (including meals & normal draws) will be brought forward to the Thursday night (Christmas Eve) for those who still wish to patronise.

CLUB CHRISTMAS PARTY

Trusting you have already been given the message and have kept Friday the 18^th December clear for the Club Christmas Party. This year there is no major booking of the club rooms and members will be able to use all facilities as usual. Gloria and Cheryl will be serving a Special Christmas Buffet with a choice of Roast Meats/Vegies or Cold Meats/Salads (or both), along with the usual plum puddings and some nibbles. Hopefully the weather will be kind this year and we can better utilise our new pergola area. “Eat inside – Party outside” will be the go, or you can eat outside if you prefer.

Special visit from….

“You know who” also arranged.

No fancy dress or special theme. However feel free to splurge if you really get the urge….!

The cost for a meal is at a special rate of $18 per head with “Happy Hour” prices for drinks. Bookings are essential. All members and their families and friends are welcome.

NEW YEARS EVE

New Years Day also falls on the following Friday so again our regular Friday night meals and draws will be brought forward to Thursday - New Years Eve. Please note there is no special New Years Eve party planned but the clubhouse will be open until around 10pm.

Note: No meals available on New Years Day.

The main reason Santa is so jolly… is because he knows where all the bad girls live..!

BOXING DAY GOLF

This year Boxing Day falls on a Saturday. As Boxing Day is reputedly one of our most popular “Green Fee” days and we anticipate a smaller field of Members, Committee has allotted special tee times to compensate both groups.

Michael will have the time sheet prepared in advance. Book your time slot now.

TWILIGHT GOLF

This season our twilight golf has started with a boom with some nights reaching the 50 player mark. Not only is the golf most enjoyable, the general atmosphere and camaraderie amongst members is also great to see. Our special thanks go to Michael and Janine (and Brodie) for their input on these nights, and well done members. Note: No twilight golf on Monday 28^th Dec. but back into it again on Mon 4^th Jan.

COURSE CONDITION

With a little more water allocation this time of the year and a few timely rain sessions our course is holding firm and still looking pretty good. Special thanks once again to Mal & Mal for their efforts in keeping our ‘Holy Grail’ in its usual tip top condition.

JUNIOR FUNDS RAISER

43 degrees certainly put a “dampener!!” on this event last month. The event is now re-scheduled for Sunday 11^th April. Please mark it on your calendar.

MEN’S INTERCLUB PENNANTS 2010

Sadly the Murraylands Interclub Pennant competition has run its race and will go now into recess. (1993-2009 = 17 seasons) Many smaller clubs were struggling to field sides and their keenness was gradually failing. Consequently this coming year our Men’s Interclub Pennant team will be venturing to the Fleurieu Peninsular, playing on the McCracken, Links Lady Bay and Victor Harbor courses. This challenging A2 competition will not come easy and we appeal to all single figure handicappers to step up and represent our Club. Our pennant Capt. Peter Phillips will be out there looking for his best team.

LOCAL PENNANTS BOOST

Local Pennant interest and participation over the last couple years has also dropped off and is in need of a boost. Hopefully this one will never get to the recess stage. Members are encouraged to re-activate themselves in 2010 and get this competition back into full swing. Keep your eye on the notice board next year.

LADIES NEWS

Lady Captain is very pleased with the summer comp numbers turning up both for twilight and Tuesday/Saturday's. With many events on and a busy time of the year right now, it is still pleasing to see good fields from the ladies. Some of the players have played Glenelg, South Lakes, Grange and Blackwood in the last month. We are getting our name "out there" amongst the clubs. Reminder re Ladies Christmas parties. Saturday 12th at Meg’s and Tuesday 15th at the clubrooms. Welcome back to Janine Cox - back with her golf handicap and out on the course.

BIRTHDAY VOUCHERS

Birthday vouchers are posted to members on a monthly basis. If you have not received your voucher please check with office staff as you may be one of the few members who have no date of birth recorded against their name on our data base.

ORCHESTRAL EVENT.

No doubt you’ve heard the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra will be featuring on our course on Saturday 20^th March. This spectacular event will be staged on the 8^th Fairway adjacent to the water hazard. The crowd for this event is estimated between 4 and 5 thousand and a lot of planning is already under way. Additionally we will be feeding up to 130 of the entourage in the clubhouse prior to starting time. Yes, golf for that day will be as usual, however there will be some modifications to a couple holes to compensate. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to put our course up on a pedestal to the eyes of South Australia and beyond. It is one not to miss and we encourage all members to support our endeavours in making this a huge success.

DOGGONE IT!!

Remember that old favorite song “All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth” Well I wonder if Mumphy has been singing that to his pet dog recently??

TEMPORARY LOCAL RULES

In view of recent vandalism on the 5^th green a temp local rule is in place, thus allowing relief from the damaged area. Rule 25.1 (nearest point of relief). Years ago when I played marbles it was called “rounds.”

Confuses say – Man with one chop stick go hungry!

CONSTITUTIONAL CHANGES

(SPECIAL MEETING)

Over the past few months our specially appointed Sub-Committee (Sue Antel, Graeme Munt, Neville Gotch, Malcolm Blight, Stephen Cocks and Ken Graetz) has had the dubious task of upgrading our current Constitution and By-Laws. Some changes have already been introduced at the last AGM, but there are quite a few changes that are still required. Many changes have been brought about through legality issues and others of our own volition. Unfortunately we were not fully prepared in time to get them all done at the AGM, so a Special General Meeting will now be required some time in the New Year. (Date to be advised…)

When all is ready full details will be posted for all members to peruse well before the meeting date.

SUB-COMMITTEE PERSONNEL

Who’s doing what in 2010?

Finance: Sue Antel, Geoff Searle & Roger Wicks.

Grounds: Graeme Munt, Bruce Clough, Ken Graetz & Sid Robbins.

Men’s Match: Sid Robbins, Dave Lubke, Peter Phillips, Geoff Searle, Michael Cox & Ken Graetz.

Ladies Match: Margie Bessen, Robyn Teasdale, Sue McQueen, Pat Ward, Yvonne Kelly, Rosemary Freeman, Bev Magor & Lyn Pitcher.

Social: Malcolm Blight & Ken Graetz and numerous others.

President Malcolm Blight and Manager Stephen Cocks are ex-officio to all Sub-Committees

BORING!! BORING !!

The latest update on the 12^th bore……Nothing to report. It seems that all plans have been put on hold for some unknown reason. Committee is however, trying to establish the reason and future plans if any!! It’s just a matter of finding someone with the answers.

HANDICAP NEWS

Last contact with Golf SA I was informed the changes are still scheduled to take effect on 1^st February 2010. However, they did advise that Golf Australia still have some minor teething matters to sort out.

DADS ARMY

Special thanks again to our small team of Dad’s Army. These guys continue to roll up every Thursday morning (regardless of the weather) and help out with the various mundane chores, thus allowing our grounds staff to get on with the more important roles. There’s always room for more helpers. Tasks are not too difficult and I am sure they all get a personal satisfaction from their efforts.

RIDE-ON BUGGIES/BIKES

Members are asked to please refrain from parking ride-on buggies or motor bikes on the paved area under the pergola or the adjacent verandahs. The access to this area is now limited and unless you are heading to or from the buggy room there should be no need to park in this area. Thank you for your cooperation.

One nice thing about egotists: they don’t talk about other people

2010 PROGRAM CHANGES

There’s no hiding the fact that our recent Golf Week was not as successful as planned, especially given the extra effort we put into its promotion this year. Committee are of the opinion that it too has run its race and in lieu we are initiating a lower scale “Murray Bridge Spring Classic” to be held over three days incorporating the normal Men’s 27 hole Open.

· Frid15^th Oct – Mixed & Men’s Ambrose.

· Sat 16^th - Men’s & Ladies Open Stableford.

· Sunday – Men’s 27 Hole Open.

Additionally our committee is also very keen on reinstating our Junior Open, hopefully to what it was several years ago when held on Anzac Day.

This event will be held on the last Friday of the school holidays – 8^th October. The event will be for both boys & girls under age of 18 years and invitations will be state wide. Alan Telford, whom many of you will remember, is now the newly appointed State Junior Development Officer and has already pledged his support.

SPECIAL THANKS

To those members who graciously assist our staff with the daily chore of placing/removing the tables and chairs under the pergola, we say thank you. It’s a mundane task but unfortunately a necessary one.

And while in the thanking mood, many thanks to the crew who rolled up at very short notice to put up our Christmas deco’s.

If you find you do not mind playing golf in the rain, the snow, even during a hurricane, here's a valuable tip: your life is in trouble!

HAM & TURKEY DAY

With total fields in excess of 220 Players, our Ham & Turkey Day was once again a very popular and successfully run event and we believe it is still the biggest and best in the State. Congratulations to all winners.

The club attributes a lot of this success to the numerous prizes and low entry costs, but also to the work and effort of our now retiring H & T ‘Organizer’ Neville Gotch, who has decided to call it a day. Special thanks Neville, for your dedicated input in running this event for many years.

CLOSING

On behalf of the Committee and all staff I wish all members, their families and friends, a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Good luck & good golfing in 2010…….

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MURRAY BRIDGE GOLF CLUB

NEWS LETTER – Jun 09

(Editor - KG)

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MANAGER’S NOTES

The future of your club is in your hands. Become an active member.

Recession: a word that’s been going around for some time now.

Like any business your Golf Club is not exempt from the world financial crisis. Along with our water issues the disposable income of many members and guests is far less than it was two years ago.

The management and staff are working very hard to retain the business that we have.

Be that as it may, our cash cow, the pokies, no longer produces the results of yesteryear, and since December our income from pokies has reduced dramatically.

In a nut shell our income from pokies this year will be some 25% less, which equates to some $55,000.00 less income. Add this to the $29,000 spent on the purchase of water, it leaves a whopping hole in our budget. The Management Committee must be congratulated on the forward thinking, having previously made provisions for this expected downturn in revenue.

On a brighter note we have more members playing more golf than last year, which is very encouraging. Your membership fees are enclosed with this newsletter. I encourage you all to renew your membership, and again if you have cash flow problems please see me. I’m sure we can arrange a payment scheme to suit you.

I look forward to a great 2010 golfing year.

SUBS

Reminder - Accounts are due to be paid by 31^st day of July, HOWEVER if you pay in full before 1^st July you will be entered in the draw for a Free Golf Week Pass (all 6 days).

2009 CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP

Here it is the end of May & already we are in the midst of another successful Men’s Club & Junior Club Championship.

As this goes to print before the finals I can’t name any winners but all will be revealed on Sunday. My congratulations go to all winners plus our top gross qualifier Peter Phillips, and Jordan Williams our 2009 Junior Champion. Commiserations to those defeated in the finals. Thanks to all who participated – I believe the May weather has once again been kind to us and the course presentation was superb.

COMMITTEE ADDITIONS

For those who are not aware, Peter Phillips has returned to our committee as a General Committee Member, along with a new face in Craig Kimber, who has offered to take on the position of House & Marketing Chairman.

Thanks men, we look forward to your input.

NEW PERGOLA – OFFICIAL OPENING

Yes we’ve waited a long time, but finally it has happened. Special thanks to all volunteers who helped make it possible.

The ‘Official Opening’ for this new area is Saturday 13^th June. The day will consist of two shot gun starts at 08:00am & 12:30pm, with the ‘official cutting of the Ribbon’ & breaking open the ‘Champers’, sometime in between those coming off the course and those about to go out. A free Sausage Sizzle will also be available from 11:30am for all.

Total cost for all materials including pavers, permit application and general incidental expenses was just short of $6000. And you will be pleased to note, that the extra $1 you have been paying each time you enter a competition has been put towards this expense.

COURSE CONDITION

Our course is looking pretty good at the moment and the occasional rains have helped tremendously. (Well done ground staff.) We stopped watering fairways late April, but the predicted allocations for the coming year do not paint a pretty future.

Only 2% allocation at this stage, (4 Meg) and a further restriction of 50% of our carryover. (12.5 Meg) = a total of 16.5 Meg. – Not good

To date this financial year we have used 112 Megalitres, having purchased 84 Meg at a total expenditure of $29,115. So there is no doubt we will need to expend again next season.

Hence the reason we have centered our finances in this area and course improvement programs unfortunately have to take a back seat.

SQUASH THIS RUMOUR

Panic slowly… No we are not starting work on a new 15^th green. This mound has merely been leveled to provide better access for our excess ground fill.

Editors Golfing Tip

If you're afraid a full shot might reach the green while the group ahead of you is still putting out, you have two options: You can immediately shank a lay-up, or wait until the green is clear and then top the ball halfway….!

PREFERRED LIE

Yes some of our fairways are looking absolutely lush and yet some are still suffering badly. We are monitoring this regularly, but in the meantime the preferred lie of one card length will remain in place.

TRIAL SODDING

In an attempt to revitalize bare areas on some fairways, Malcolm is experimenting transplant of couch from the 3^rd Fairway. This in turn will expose a GUR area on the 3^rd Fairway.

100 METRE POSTS

These posts are now in place. Thanks again to volunteers (especially Ken Parbs) for this addition to our course. For info they (& the 150m posts) are measured from the ‘centre of the green’.

REMOVAL OF GUR

Players are advised that the shrub & bush area adjacent to right hand side of the 3^rd tee is no longer a designated garden area and GUR relief no longer applies. Area to be played as integral part of course.

Did you ever wonder what the best thing was

before sliced bread?

PENNANTS 2009

Congratulations to ‘RED’ team in

winning the Local Pennants Flag. R/Up Gold.

For info, the 2009 Interclub Pennants Flag was won by Mannum. This is their very first Flag since the inception in Interclub Pennants in 1993.

PENNANTS 2010 & BEYOND

There’s no secret the Interclub Pennants interest is slowly fading. In view of this our Match Committee recently flagged an inquiry/interest with the Men’s Southern Golf Pennants Association for 2010.

Today (27/5) I received an email from their coordinator with 2010 dates, team structure etc. and a request from them seeking our application to submit team (s) for 2010.

Apparently they are keen to have us. They actually wanted us to submit an A grade team this year starting Sunday May 31^st – but this was not feasible.

Their B & C Grades start the last Sunday in May with the A-Grade starting later i.e. 20^th June.

Teams of 7, six weeks & a final, played from 8:30 Sunday Mornings.

If we were to get serious about this, our commitment would be an essential element.

Consequently a Special Pennant Meeting will be convened for Monday 15^TH June at 7:30pm to discuss our options and also resolve issues which are currently effecting our local competition.

What do you think? Your feed back is important so please start talking up 2010 now and come along to this meeting. – All welcome (including ladies)

TIGER WOODS RAFFLE

Keep your eye open for this one.

Our newly appointed House & Marketing Chairman, Craig Kimber, has acquired two free tickets to see Tiger Woods in the coming Australian Masters for two days at Kingston Heath on 14^th & 15^th Nov. Yes, the winning tickets will include air fares. You’ve got to be in it to win it. Only $2 per ticket. Drawn Golf Week.

GOLF WEEK - OCT 09.

The Golf Week committee has been actively perusing ways of improving our Golf Week for 2009. The program will revert back to a 6 day event and although the current economic down turn has not helped, sponsorship deals have improved and our special promotion of the event will soon be in operation. Application forms will soon be available.

Entry fees are $15 guests - $10 Members (per day). Note: Any member who nominates for all 6 days gets the reduced fee of $50 which includes the $5 BBQ on Opening Tuesday.

MEN’s FOURSOMES CHAMPIONSHIPS

Saturday 20^th June – Its time to start looking for that “in-form” partner.

NEW HANDICAP “SLOPE” SYSTEM

Yes the rumors are true, our current system will be changed by the end of 2011. The current CCR system will go out and the American “Slope” system will be introduced. This system is currently being used in all of Europe and New Zealand and they say it is the bee’s knees. (Time will tell).

Without going into the nitty gritty your handicap will be based on the best 10 of your last 20 rounds and courses will be rated on a difficulty ratio. This in turn will mean that if you play here on your Murray Bridge handicap, the very next day you could be playing on a much higher handicap at a harder rated course. Interesting!!

We will keep you informed as time progresses.

PRO CONTRACT

Members are advised that Michael’s contract has recently been signed for a further 3 years. For info we are one of the very few country courses that have still been able to retain a Pro. Your support is most vital to both Michael’s business and our club’s future.

COURTESY REMINDER

Members are reminded to ‘always’ report to the Pro-Shop before starting any practice rounds, regardless of where you enter the course. Although it may seem unimportant to some, it does help Michael and his staff in the control and knowledge of who should and who should not be on the course.

Your support in this way will also help counteract the problem of many green fee losses.

LADIES CORNER – Margie Bessen

· Congratulations to Margie Goodman -winner of the Mothers Day Raffle.

· Murray Bridge Pennant team played off in the South Group Grand Final on 25^th May.  Team was Leanne Quast, Meg Dillon, Susan McQueen, Marg Bessen and Rosemary Freeman.  Unfortunately the team went down 4-1 to Echunga.  Marg Bessen was the only winner from the local team.

· Rosemary Freeman was runner up in the B Grade Champs overall at South Lakes recently, breaking her handicap – now down to 24.

· On 12th May the Vice President of the State Zones, Mrs Jenny Butcher, visited our course and joined our weekly Ladies' Competition. Jenny has been a club champ at Mt Osmond and South Lakes and is the sister of Rosemary Freeman.

· Over the summer and autumn months we have been averaging 32 to 33 ladies out on a Tuesday.  Saturday morning lady numbers vary from 10 to 15.

· There has been a very good response to our ladies visiting other clubs for their Opening and Gala Days. 

· The 2009 Shylie Rymill Foursome winners were Leanne Quast and Susan McQueen. Runners up Yvonne Kelly and Bev Magor.

· Heather Fromm has come up with a great idea for one of our “Fun Days”.  It has been suggested we have shotgun start followed by a BBQ utilising the new pergola area after competition. Two dates available are 21^st July or 8^th September.

· Coming events in June – 23^rd June Club Foursomes Championship.  L’Oreal Days 13^th and 16^th June.

LADIES CLINICS

Keep your eyes open for advice on a pending ladies Clinic. Michael is in the process of organizing this in the near future - good one for all to get involved.

MURRAYLAND’s OPEN 2009

This year the Murraylands ‘Open’ is played in conjunction with the Pinnaroo ‘Open’ on Sunday 7^th June.

I know I keep harping, but it is a proven fact that if we turn up at other Murrayland Club Opens, they will reciprocate.

Pinnaroo might be a bit close to organize but there are plenty others to consider.

See page 16 of 2009 booklet for details.

DIVOTS – PLUG MARKS

Reminder - This time of year our course is most vulnerable. Please make special efforts and always carry a bucket of sand.

FREE SATURDAY ‘MYSTERY RAFFLE’

Our new Marketing Chairman Craig has come up with this idea in the hope to encourage more members to be presentations and improve our general club patronage. I’m not sure how it is going to pan out but the idea certainly sounds great. Commencing Sat 20^th June, the Mystery Raffle winner will be drawn from the day’s cards and you must be there to collect or prizes will jackpot.

GOLF RESULTS IN MAIL PAPERS

This issue has haunted us for years and still comes back to haunt us every now and then.

Please be assured that results are being emailed thru every week, and Sunday Mail has admitted (in writing) that they have been at fault. Although we appear to be getting the worst deal, other clubs are also having these issues.

So PLEASE do not ring the Pro Shop and complain to Michael or his staff as it is not their fault.

FRIDAY NIGHT DRAWS

Our Friday night crowds are not as strong as they have been in past years, thus effecting our overall trading & ticket sales profit.

Committee has therefore resolved that the Patrons Money Bag draw (7pm) will revert back to a $200 Jackpot ‘starting point’ (rather than the current $500) after each payout.

The Members draw (6:30pm) and meat raffles will remain the same at this stage.

We encourage all members to come along on Friday nights whenever possible.

Special thanks to all regulars. Your patronage is always appreciated.

LAST BUT NOT LEAST……….

Our function room has fortunately been heavily booked for the next two months for various large functions. Consequently the kitchen will occasionally be closed at normal operating times to allow our staff to cater efficiently and to keep the much needed “outside” patronage flowing.

Panic slowly! Alternative measures will be in place and you will not miss out.

We apologize for any inconvenience.

Good Luck – Good Golfing.

KG

Fact -

War does not determine who is right. ……………………….War determines who is left..!!