Golf Australia ‘encouraged’ to see golf being played with minimal risk

April 22, 2020

Golf Australia has advised that it is “encouraged to see golf played in comparative safety in five states and one territory in recent weeks as we all adopt social distancing necessities.”

Following a period of uncertainty with many golf courses across Australia closing during the week beginning 30th March, and many then reopening, Victoria and the Northern Territory have been the only areas of Australia where all golfing activity has ceased.

Noting how golfers have observed social distancing requirements, in a statement on its website Golf Australia advised “under strict and specific safety protocols – enforced by state and territory guidelines as well as individual club rules - Golf Australia is now satisfied that golf can be played at minimal risk. Having worked collaboratively with our clubs and other stakeholders, we are now comfortable to alter our position and encourage courses to open and for people to play.

“As well as social distancing, these safety protocols include keeping gloves on and not touching hands with playing partners, not sharing carts, leaving flags in, reducing hole depth, greater times between groups, not exchanging cards, not using bunker rakes and maintaining personal hygiene.

“The ability to play currently does not apply to those in Victoria and the Northern Territory where golf remains prohibited by those State and Territory governments. As ever, Golf Australia will continue constructive dialogue and advocacy for golfers with these governments.”

The statement also explains “Golf Australia’s focus during the COVID-19 pandemic will always be the wellbeing of the broader community.

“Combined with our enduring responsibility for our clubs, their staff and all Australian golfers, we remain comfortable that our position recommending that clubs close has been appropriate to this point.”

Image: Sandringham Golf Course. Victoria and the Northern Territory are the only areas of Australia where all golfing activity has ceased.

17th April 2020 - Prime Minister Morrison outlines plans for lifting of Coronavirus restrictions

16th April 2020 - Golf Australia cancels events until 30th June

3rd April 2020 - Confusion as courses ignore Golf Australia advice and remain open

3rd April 2020 - Organisers advise of cancellation of Golf Business Forum 2020

2nd April 2020 - Golf course greenkeepers fear shutdown will result in multi-billion dollar damage to turf infrastructure

31st March 2020 - Golf Australia advises that clubs, courses and facilities should close

28th March 2020 - Clubhouses close but golf courses remain open through Coronavirus crisis

23rd March 2020 - Prime Minister Morrison announces new social restrictions to prevent Coronavirus spread that will last for months

18th February 2020 - Stephen Pitt resigns as Chief Executive of Golf Australia

17th February 2020 - Sunshine Coast public golf course expands to 18 holes

23rd January 2020 - Upgraded Sandringham Golf Course set to open nine holes to public

17th January 2020 - Australian Golf Courses recognised in global list

6th January 2020 - Country Club International and Golf Business Australia combine to reduce risk at Australian golf clubs

22nd November 2019 - Golf Australia announces new partnership with AgBioEn

7th November 2019 - Australia to be among first group of countries rolling out golf’s new world handicap system

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