Newsletter

NEW COMMITTEE (2010/2011)

Executive

President Roger Wickes

Vice President Sue Antel

Men’s Captain Ken Graetz

Ladies Captain Lyn Pitcher

Ordinary Committee Members

Malcolm Blight Bruce Clough

Graeme Munt Perrin Kuchel

Geoff Searle Dean Wright

Men’s & Ladies Vice Captains

David Lubcke Robyn Teasdale

SUB COMMITTEES/ROLES

Finance – Sue Antel (Chair), Roger Wickes,

Geoff Searle, Perrin Kuchel.

Grounds – Graeme Munt (Chair), Bruce Clough,

Dean Wright, Ken Graetz.

Men’s Match – Ken Graetz (Chair) Dave Lubcke, Geoff Searle, Michael Cox, Peter Phillips.

Ladies Match – Robyn Teasdale (Chair), Lyn Pitcher, Julie Leane, Rosemary Freeman, Jan Murray, Maureen Edwards.

House, Marketing & Social

Ken Graetz (Chair), Roger Wickes, Sue Antel

Bruce Clough, Perrin Kuchel.

Centenary Committee Malcolm Blight (Chair)

Mal Grundy, Geoff Searle, Maureen Johnson, Ken Parbs, Ken Graetz.

PRESIDENT’S WELCOME

I am pleased to have the opportunity to fill this role and very fortunate to have a strong committee and staff to work with. We have established the directions in which the club wants to progress and these are focused on:

Ø the proposed new development,

Ø growing the membership and our reputation over time, and

Ø ensuring we have great golf experiences and social events at the club.

I have met with the Mayor and the developers letting them know of our aspirations and willingness to make the best of the opportunities they may provide both for the club and the growth of Murray Bridge.

Next year is going to be exciting with the Centenary event, some formalized social events and discussions with the developers.

View Details I wish you all compliments of the season and look forward to an exciting 2011.

Roger Wickes.

RACECOURSE UPDATE

At the AGM I provided an update from the developer, Burke Urban. He had engaged planners on behalf of the joint venture to investigate the possibility of a golf course estate on the current racecourse and golf course that would be to the mutual benefit of all parties ignoring ownership boundaries. I understand from Kym Burke that the planners have been busy and will shortly have further discussions with the Council and the Golf Club Committee.

Be rest assured we will keep you informed of any developments as they occur.

Roger Wickes.

CLUB TRADING OVER HOLIDAY PERIOD

Fri - 24/12 Xmas Eve Norm Friday meals

Sat - 25/12 Xmas Day Closed all day

Sun - 26/12 Proc Day Open 11am – 4pm

Mon - 27/12 Xmas Day P/Hol Open 11am – 4pm

Tue - 28/12 Proc. Day P/Hol Open 11am – 4pm

Fri - 31/12 New Years Eve Norm Friday meals

Sat - 1/1 New Years Day Open 10 am – 6pm

Mon – 3/1 N.Y.Day P/Hol Open 11am – 4pm

PRO SHOP, BUGGY SHED, BUGGY ROOM ACCESS

Normal trading with the following exceptions:

Christmas Day

Closed all day - No access to Buggy Shed or Buggy Room – Note: alarms will be activated.

New Years Day –

Club House open from 10am - 6pm.

Pro Shop will only be open from 11am - 1pm.

New Years Day Stableford Competition.

Limited tee blocks will be reserved for members from 11:15am to 1pm for Men’s & Ladies Ball comp only – No grades, No NTP’s, No Pro Comp or Eagles nest. No Buggy Hire. $5 entry fee.

All other Saturday tee times will be open to green fee players. (Hit off 1^st tee – exception due to green fee players) Any members wishing to play in the competition outside these hours will need to pay their fees later (honesty system) and please organize your buggies/sticks during open times. The card box is to be utilized.

Note: The Buggy Shed & Buggy Room will be locked again at 6pm with alarms activated.

RECENT RAINS

We certainly have had our share of downpours over the last month. Don’t stand still in the one place for too long, you could either sink or the grass will grow up through your toes. Many thanks go to our Ground staff and volunteers who have obviously worked overtime to clean up and prepare the course for play.

CLUB CHRISTMAS PARTY

(Friday 17^th Dec)

Members, their families and friends are invited to attend our annual Club Xmas Party.

The menu will consist of a Christmas Special ‘Buffet’ with a choice of Roast Meats/Vegies and Cold Meats/Salad, followed by plum pudding. $20 per head – Child (Under12yrs) $10.

Come and enjoy our musical entertainer Patrick Mansfield – Father Xmas – Happy hour prices – lots of novelties etc. Good fun times to enjoy.

CHRISTMAS AMBROSE

(Saturday 18^th Dec)

Format - 2 Shot Gun Starts, 8am & 12:30pm - Mixed & Men’s (teams of 4). These will be two separate AM & PM competitions where we will double up with prizes.

Event sponsored by the Murray Bridge Hotel.

‘before & after’ BBQ lunch/salads will be available between 11:15 and 1:30 with Sid’s shed also open for business. The Kitchen will be closed.

Novelty Prizes for best Xmas outfits so get in the spirit and go all out for an enjoyable day of golf.

Special invitation to 6 Day Members for this event.

CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS UPDATE

(8^th, 9^th & 10^th April 2011)

Our Centenary Sub-Committee continues` to actively piece together as much information as possible and hope to provide a successfully organized event.

The influx of history and photo’s thus far, has been staggering and kept our history collator Malcolm Blight extremely busy.

The “official night” of the event will be in the form of a casual dinner on the Saturday night with a two course meal (Webber Roast & Sweets) at a cost of $25 per head. This will include free handouts of our Centenary Booklet. A few (limited) speeches from past era players and presentations to long standing members is also on the agenda.

Formal invitations are being sent to past Champions, & known past Executive Committee personnel, however all current members and their partners are hereby ‘officially invited’ (saving postage costs) and an RSVP to the office (the sooner the better) would be greatly appreciated to help with catering and general logistical organization.

SOCIAL CALENDAR

The Social Committee is in the process of re-forming and a 12 month Social Calendar is being drafted. Keep your eye on the notice boards and read the notices on tables for coming events. ‘Black Cat Day’ (Friday 13^th May) & ‘Xmas in July’ (9/7) are two events to keep in mind.

SUMMER TEE CHANGES (review)

The recent Summer Tee changes have been met with mixed preferences and emotions of members.

General feed back from members at this stage appears to be approx 50% in favour and 50% against, with the main issue being the 5 minute compulsory stop-over at the 18^th.

In view of the feed back the decision was reviewed on 7^th Dec. at a General Match Committee meeting, represented by both men’s and ladies Match Committee members.

Effective Sat 11^th December the original decision will stand with one change to the compulsory 5 minute stop-over, which will now only apply on days where the estimated temperature is 32 or above.

Note: This policy does not over-ride the current Heat Policy of 40+ degrees.

For information we are not the first club to do this. Some suburban clubs are also trialling changes, particularly the 5 minute stop over. (It is 20 minutes at TTG on hotter days)

The sole purpose of this change is about “duty of care” to members. Golf Australia encourages all clubs to give consideration to the ‘duty of care’ of members and recommend appropriate club policies are put in place.

On days 32 degrees or above, cold drink water will be made available in both the club house and under the pergola.

Please do not fill you personal water bottles up from these places. This water is only intended for use in the cups provided. However members are welcome to ask the bar staff to fill up water bottles using the rainwater tap over the bar.

You are encouraged to drink as much water as possible.

Two Mexican detectives were investigating the murder of Pro Golfer Juan Gonzalez.

“How was he killed?” asked one detective.

“With a Golf Gun” was the reply

“What’s a Golf Gun?”

“I don’t know, but it sure made a Hole-in-Juan”

MATCH/PROGRAM 2011

In view of several requests from members both match committees are currently planning a few different options for the coming 2011 program.

These include introduction of a couple more ‘Ambrose events’ and ‘Drawn Round’ days. Our view is to mix members more socially and raise the club atmosphere to a higher level.

A special ‘Short Course Championship’ is also planned for next years Opening Day.

DRAWN ROUNDS SATS & WED’S

It’s great to see some of our members have asked for ‘Drawn Rounds’. Let’s play with someone different for a change……

On Saturday February 12^th (Rin Pra - Stableford) our first ‘Drawn Round’ will happen.

Members simply nominate for 8am or 12:30pm S/Gun start on the list. Allocated Tee blocks & playing partners will not be revealed until 7:30am & 12midday respectively. (Members will however need to indicate if sharing buggies)

SHORT COURSE CHAMPIONSHIP

(Open Day – 6^th March)

This event is a ‘Fun-Social’ yet ‘Semi-Serious’ event which involves 18 par 3 holes of disjointed rotation throughout the course.

In this event Tee blocks are strategically placed in most unusual areas, with some blind shots to greens, or over, through or around trees etc.

On-course nibbles, drinks etc are an added feature of the event which will be followed by a family BBQ.

We have already gained additional Sponsorship for this event which will allow us to initiate the inaugural ‘Short Course (Net) Championship Cups’ for both Men & Lady Winners. Lots of Net prizes, NTP’s and other novelty prizes are included.

The inspiration for this event came from my recent holiday through Cooma NSW, where it is the most successfully supported event of their calendar.

Keep your eye on the notice board early next year for a ‘peep’ at the course lay-out and more detailed information.

LADIES MATCH

First & foremost we congratulate Lyn Pitcher (Ladies Capt) & Robyn Teasdale (Vice Capt) for taking on these respective positions. The original intention was to reverse these roles, however whilst Robyn remains an employee of the club, she is unfortunately ineligible to serve on the Management Committee with a voting right. (Conflict of interest - Club Policy)

The compromise is appreciated by committee and it is working well.

Ø Life Member Barb Smelt is undergoing minor surgery at the moment. Keep the ‘Sunshine Girl’ in your thoughts.

Ø Ladies Opening Day Tuesday 8^th March.

Ø Oct 11^th the Ladies Committee is holding the Pink Ribbon Charity Day. We all have been affected by cancer in some form or another. It will be a Stableford event for both Men & Ladies so please keep this date free.

Happy Christmas and New Year to you all.

Captains Lyn & Robyn

View Details AUSTRALIA DAY

(Wednesday 26^th January – 2011)

Normally a Men’s Wednesday competition but being a Public Holiday we invite all players for an Aussie BBQ Australia Day ‘Flag’ Competition. (Men’s & Ladies Comps)

From 11am we will be firing up the Lamb Chops, Lamb Snags, Lamb patties and even Lamb salads & sliced Lamb bread.

(& Sam KeKovich has been invited !!)

The Flag comp is a unique stroke competition where we see who can carry the flag the furthermost distance until their handicap is used up. How many of you have ever played it?

Great social day anticipated!

COMPETITION FEES / VOUCHER SYSTEM REVIEW

Members are advised that the Finance committee in consultation with both Men’s & Ladies Match Committees, is currently reviewing the competition fee / voucher system with the view of fairing up the system for both men’s and ladies competitions.

We are looking at invoking an across the board, ‘equal to all’ system.

Currently there are varying fees and inconsistent payout percentages, in particular the Men’s Wednesday competition which is very unbalanced and over generous.

Any changes will not take effect until resolved early next year.

INTERCLUB PENNANTS

The sad news here is the knock back we received with our submission of a 2^nd team for next season. Unfortunately the popularity of the handicap match-play has ruled us out for the current time. None the less we believe our A2 side will reap the benefits of a few of our lower handicappers recently coming back onto the scene. (Great to see)

LOCAL PENNANTS

A meeting will be held early February (Date TBA) for all interested players to thrash out numbers and teams accordingly.

GROUNDS

Malcolm tells me he’s been kept too busy over the past month to bore you with his news.

(Actually he’s really been splashing about in the water with his rubber duckie savouring the moments of these magnificent rains. !!)

Not much is happening in the form of new projects. Agenda items such as a new bunker on the 11^th, tree planting and other aesthetic changes are all ‘on hold’ pending any possible news in the racecourse area.

Malcolm & staff have asked to pass on their Christmas and New Year wishes to all members.

TWILIGHT GOLF

(Handicapping)

Congratulations to Michael & Janine for running another successful twilight Competition.

Those players who are dubious about being handicapped for this event can rest at ease as the compulsory handicapping rule for this competition has been lifted.

Golf Australia have turned around with their original decision of compulsory handicapping and now leave it up to the individual clubs.

Match Committee will however asses other 9 Hole Competitions bearing in mind any ‘9 Hole members’ will need to submit cards for handicap. Discretion will be left to the appropriate match committees.

JUNIOR BOYS SUCCESS

Congratulations to our three junior members in Tyson Pratt, Michael Young & Hayden Marcus of Murray Bridge High School, who successfully won the recent Golf SA State Secondary School Teams competition.

From there on the boys experienced an all expenses paid flight & accommodation to Sydney for the 3 day Australian Final, which was played at the ‘Australian’ Golf Course. Team Chaperone Geoff Searle reports the boys did us extremely proud and ran 4^th overall in the competition of all State Finalists.

The Sunday was a practice day but called off after 9 holes due to heavy rain. The two championship rounds were played on Monday & Tuesday with harsher weather conditions on the Tuesday. This was a challenging course and a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience. Included in the trip was a free visit to the Lakes Course where the Australian Open was recently played. Well done lads.

NEW TELEVISION SCREEN

Special Thanks go to long standing sponsors Brian & Barb Smyth who so generously donated the new digital TV Screen in the main dining room. The screen will eventually be mounted similarly to the Sprig Bar screen.

MOTOR BIKES

Members are reminded that ‘Ride-on bikes/carts’ are NOT permitted under the new pergola area.

Oil leaks, mud tracks and general blocking of access are the reasons behind this decision.

Fact: A good drive on the 18th hole has stopped many a golfer from giving up the game.

FRIDAY NIGHT DRAWS

Don’t listen to the vicious rumours; I did not sabotage the old number machine!! It just happened to implode when I plugged it in one day!! Must be my electric vibes!!!

The replacement cost is around the $8,000 mark which obviously cannot be justified. Thanks to member Steve France and his ‘wiz-kid’ daughter our current method has cost us nothing and is working quite nicely. However we are still trialing other options and hopefully will soon be upgrading with a combined marketing and golf results screen.

FOUR CORNERS ABC.

Many members have commented on a Four Corners program aired in November.

About 4,000 business across the country had telephone account arrangements with a company called Fresh Telecom which was heavily involved with a large investor, being Macquarie leasing.

Fresh Telecom went into liquidation in July 2007.

The Program was about the business practices of Fresh Telecom and the threats being made by the Macquarie bank in trying to reduce their losses.

Many companies did not like the heavy handed approach by Macquarie and started a class action against them. The management committee of our golf club did not get involved in this and after a number of discussions with Macquarie settled on a favorable outcome for all.

Prior to changing to Fresh Telecom the club had a very old phone system and had on average a telephone account of $739.00 per month which did not include the cost of a telephone system.

With our settlement arrangements our new telephone system including phone calls is now costing on average $791.00 per month. The telephone system will serve our requirements for many years to come.

EMAIL SYSTEMS

The Club is catching up with the times and intends to keep you better informed by directly emailing you updates of events and newsletters. Unfortunately many members have yet to advise the club of their email address.

We will start the system in the New Year using new software which manages your security and privacy and is a system used by many other golf clubs to keep their members and sponsors informed.

If you want to be part of it please provide your email address. Easiest way is to send us an email to mbridgegc@internode.on.net.

If not you will still be able to pick up hard copy of the information at the Clubhouse or read it on the notice board.

NEW MEMBERS

(Since Last Newsletter)

Jeff Lipp 1^st Year

Kym Elliott 1^st Year

John Kelly 1^st Year

Mr C Freer 1^st Year

Mr Kym Thomas PAYP

Mr Peter Williams PAYP

Mr Mike Watherston PAYP

Mr Tyson Wait Sporting

Brodie PETT 1^st Year

Chris Walker PAYP

Scott March Sporting

Mark Kwiatkowski PAYP

Samual Hein Provisional

Scott McCulloch Full

Sebastian Hayton Sporting

Ryan Eyre Sporting

Graham White PAYP

Dwayne Hollitt 1^st Year

Wade Von Duve Provisional

Henry Hodge Sporting

Mason Merritt Sporting

Simon Gibbs 1^st Year

Benjamin Hill 1^st Year

Reece Graetz Student

Clyde Thoman 1^st year

Nick Hall 1^st year

David Aldridge Sporting

Trusting I have not missed anyone.

Welcome to you all and good golfing.

Fact: It’s easier to get up at 6am to play golf than it is 10am to mow lawns.

GOLF SA WEBSITE

Golf SA are currently upgrading their website which is expected to be in place before Christmas Day.

Members with access to the internet are encouraged to take the time and browse the website and pick up on some of the links.

Eventually our Club and the Murraylands Golf Association will have our own items on this site.

MEN’S COUNTRY GOLF WEEK

Next year will be the 102^nd year of this event. Over the last decade or so its popularity has diminished and numbers have dropped dramatically.

In the last 2 years your Murraylands Delegates and Golf SA board have strived to revive the event and bring it back to life.

I am pleased to inform you that after a fair amount of negotiation with the 4 major sand belt clubs our 2011 event will now include Royal Adelaide, Kooyonga, Glenelg and The Grange. Back to where it used to be. The 5^th day will be played at Adelaide Shores.

I’ve still got a copy of the 1983 field (my first year) and the M.B.G.C. Championship Team that year consisted of M.Bott, E.Rodda, D.Guerin & R.Hewish.

The Club Handicap Team members were R.Dickinson, D.Meyer, D.Quick & M.Bott.

Other M.B.G.C. names I recognised in the field were N.Clasohm, B.Mumford, T.Thiele, L.Britton & R.Strydom.

I encourage all members to think about getting involved next year. We need to support the event to retain these courses. Dates are Sept 26^th – 30^th.

VISION FOR THE GOLF CLUB.

What would you like from your club?

The Committee has adopted the following vision.

“To be recognized as a top quality, affordable golf club and entertainment centre, catering to the expectations of its members and the wider community”

To fulfill this vision it has adopted 5 goals, namely:

Ø Opportunity for a par 72 course and suitable practice range

Ø Increase the reputation of the Golf Club

Ø Provide a range of golf experiences

Ø Provide entertainment for members

Ø Provide good governance

We have ideas and sub-committees to progress these goals and will report on how well we do. If you want to know more or have some views ask Stephen for the Strategic Plan and send in some comments. The Plan is valuable not only for us but for informing the developers and Council of our commitment to making the best of our opportunities.

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 2011…….

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Murray Bridge Golf Club

2010 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

7:30pm - Monday 25th October 2010

1. Welcome - President Malcolm Blight welcomed all members.

2. Present – Antel Sue, Bell John, Bessen Marg, Blight Malcolm, Bott Max, Clough Bruce, Clough Geraldine, Cocks Stephen, Croxton Dorree, Edwards Graham, Edwards Maureen, Fiegert Kevin, France Steven, Gotch Neville, Graetz Ken, Hall Brian,Hosgood Kevin, Jericho Glen, Jericho Lyn, Johnson Maureen, Jones Greg, Kelly Lyall, Kelly Yvonne, Kuchel Annmarie, Kuchel Perrin, Leane Julie, Lubcke David, Magor Bev, Magor Robert Moore Chester, Morgan Jeff, Mumford Brian, Munt Graeme, Peacock Ron, Pearson Gary, Phillips Peter, Pitcher Lyn, Pitcher Mal, Qauast Leanne, Reddin Jack, Robb Pat, Robbins Sid, Rodda Eric, Searle Geoff, Sims Roy, Smyth Brian, Sullivan Martin, Teasdale Robyn, Thomas Hazel, Trotter Michael, Trotter Peter, Ward John, Ward Pat, Wickes Dianne, Wickes Roger, Williams Eric, Williams Luke, Woolford Dean, Wright Adrienne, Wright Bruce. (60 present)

3. Apologies – N.Hutchens, D.Wright, M.Grundy, B.Squires, M.Dillon, C.Jones, M.Underwood, S.McQueen, R.McCormick, B.Smelt.

4. Presentation of Men’s Winter Trophies.

Captain P.Phillips 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 26^th Oct, 2009

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

6. Minutes of Special General meeting held Monday 27^th Sept 2010

President Malcolm made reference to Special General Meeting relating to Constitutional Changes held 27^th Sept 2010 and asked for a motion to accept those minutes. S.Antel moved that the minutes be accepted as a true and accurate account, 2^nd.by R.Wickes. Motion Carried

7. President’s Report – President Malcolm then read his report to the meeting.

N.Gotch thanked Malcolm for his report and moved that his report be accepted, 2^nd. P.Robb – Carried.

8. Financial Report – President Malcolm handed over to Finance Chairperson S.Antel who provided meeting with her Finance Report Summary for past season ending 30^th June 2010.

M.Johnson moved her report be accepted 2^nd D.Wickes. Motion Carried.

9. Membership Fees for 2011 / 2012 - Recommendations from Management Committee were then displayed on screen. Committee recommending a 2.8% increase (CPI increase) on Full Membership Subscriptions with other category increases adjusted accordingly. i.e. Full Membership to be set at $693 (an increase of $19)

B.Clough moved the above recommendations be accepted. 2^nd G.Jericho.

Matter opened for discussion – no questions or discussions forthcoming.

Motion put to the meeting – Motion Carried.

10. Appointment of Auditor President M.Blight recommended the current Auditor “Messenger - Zerner” continue their appointment as Auditors for ensuing year. Moved S.Antel, 2^nd J.Redden. Carried.

11. Election of Officers.

President Malcolm advised of the following committee members with 1 year still to serve.

Geoff Searle Ordinary Committee Member

Bruce Clough Ordinary Committee Member

Roger Wickes Ordinary Committee Member

He then declared his Presidency position and all other Management Committee positions vacant thanking all members and committee for their support over past few years. .

Committee Nominations:

Club President 2 Year term Roger Wickes Voted in by members.

Vice President 1 Year term Sue Antel Voted in by members.

Mens Captain 1 Year term Ken Graetz Voted in by members.

Ladies Captain 2 Year term No nomination

Ordinary Member 2 Year term G.Munt Voted in by members.

Ordinary Member 2 Year term D.Wright Voted in by members

Ordinary Member 2 Year term No nomination

Ordinary Member 1 Year term M.Blight Voted in by members

Sub Committee Nominations

Mens Vice Captain 1 Year term D.Lubke Voted in by members

Ladies Vice Captain 1 Year term No nomination

The incumbent President Roger Wickes then thanked all appointees for their nominations and made special reference to retiring President Malcolm Blight for his past commitment.

12. General Business.

1. Racecourse Update – President Roger then provided the meeting with an updated outline of the current Racecourse development projects including incorporated Local Council issues.

2. General Business Question – N.Gotch made reference to recent $1 increase in competition funds and seeking clarification on future budgeting and policies with regards to spending of Competition Funds. Answer provided by Pres Roger that increase would remain and pointed out to members that the Competition Funds form part of the joint income for general club revenue and not specifically designated to Competition prizes only.

3. No other business

Meeting closed at 8:25pm.

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Copy of Letter addressed to members General Business Item No 1 above.

Murray Bridge Golf Club

AGM 25^th October 2010

Background for presentation by Chairman.

1. Burke Urban Developments Pty Ltd and the Murray Bridge Racing Club Inc. have entered into a joint venture for the development of a new racecourse and urban development on 880 hectares of land, south of the Freeway and bounded by Brinkley Road and Usher Road, Gifford Hill.

2. This Joint Venture also retains development rights over the existing Racecourse, adjacent to the Murray Bridge Golf Course, with development on that existing racecourse land possible following the relocation of racing activities to the new Brinkley Road facility anticipated in late 2012.

3. Development of the existing Racecourse site is currently being planned by urban planner Mr. Geoffrey Bone in conjunction with golf course architect Neil Crafter and of course in consultation with Perth Planner, Bill Burrell of Taylor Burrell Barnett who is undertaking a township master plan with the Rural city of Murray Bridge.

4. We have asked the planners to investigate the possibility of a golf course estate, incorporating and expanding the Murray Bridge Golf course to par 72 length or longer.

5. The planners have been asked to prepare a draft plan for discussion and whilst acknowledging the land ownership and use entitlements, we have given them scope to design the optimum solution for mutual benefit of all parties and essentially ignoring ownership boundaries for this purpose.

6. It is anticipated that a draft plan will be available for discussion with all participants in early December 2010.

7. Extension of fairways and rationalization of boundaries will be dependent upon agreement between our Joint venture and the Rural City of Murray Bridge and of course concurrence with your Club. Once a plan has been accepted by the parties, we would then undertake a feasibility and staging plan to ascertain the viability of the plan and to look at cost sharing arrangements.

8. This process, by necessity, has to be undertaken in an orderly and rational way. Accordingly we ask for patience whilst the planners undertake their investigations and prepare draft plans. We will undertake to fully involve your Chairman and committee in discussions and to seek input to the draft plan, when they are available and after a courtesy presentation to the Rural City as land owner and approving authority.

Kym Burke

Managing Director

Burke Urban Developments Pty Ltd.

17^th October 2010

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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

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.

Fact -

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

8^th, 9^th & 10^th April 2011.

NEWS LETTER – December 2010

NEWS LETTER – June 10

NEWS LETTER – Dec 09

NEWS LETTER – Jun 09

8th, 9th & 10th April 2011.

NEWS LETTER – December 2010

NEWS LETTER – June 10

NEWS LETTER – Dec 09

NEWS LETTER – Jun 09

8^th, 9^th & 10^th April 2011.