As we move into the final weeks of our Winter Course Protection Policy, reports continue to be received of both adult and junior members playing the golf course without using winter mats on fairways.

The Winter Course Protection Policy is implemented each year as a means of affording protection to the course during a period where growth and recovery of fairways and greens is impacted by shorter, colder and wetter days.

During winter, grass (especially in colder regions) becomes:

• Dormant and fragile
• Slower to recover from divots
• Susceptible to soil compaction
• Easily damaged by frost and excess moisture

Use of winter mats is a key part of the policy which helps preserve the course conditions until the growing season returns and affords benefits including:

• Prevention of divots
• Reduces compaction damage
• Lowers turf repair costs
• Extends playable season

Please note that winter mats must be used on fairways and around greens when the Winter Course Protection Policy is in force. Failure to do so displays a lack of respect to our hard working course team and towards other players who are diligent in using mats.

Where Members are observed to be playing without winter mats from fairways and therefore in breach of the Winter Course Protection Policy, the matter will be reported to Committee for further consideration.

Please respect and help look after your golf course over the next few weeks, we will see the benefits during the golfing season ahead.

Enjoy your golf!