“Water Dynamics Yarrawonga is undertaking the project to install a sprinkling system, and we’re hoping to have it completed by mid-January,” club president Frank Baring told The Free Press.
“The sooner, the better,” added vice president Carol Fursdon. “It would be lovely to see the green fairways return.”
“After 27 years, everything in our system was blocked, and North East Water has been terrific, providing a grant of $230,000,” Mr. Baring said.
January is shaping up to be a big month for Rutherglen Golf Club, with detailed plans for a new clubhouse to be discussed with Indigo Shire Council.
“We will get a good idea of the cost, but we expect it to be around $1 million. Once we know the figure, we will seek grants from state and federal governments, probably up to $800,000,” Mr. Baring said. “We’re so appreciative of the generous $100,000 donation from Ken and Leigh Jasper towards a new clubhouse, as announced at the club’s 125th anniversary on May 31.”
Rutherglen Golf Club is a community-based club used by various organisations, including darts and Rotary, and hosts events such as weddings and funerals. The existing clubhouse seats 60 people, while the new one would cater for 120.
“We have 193 golf members, including 43 juniors,” Mr. Baring said. “Ten juniors have handicaps.”
Membership has grown significantly since Mr. Baring took over the presidency five years ago. “We had 72 members back then. Now we have mixed events, everyone gets along, and we have a great mix of male and female members of all ages on the committee.”
Fairway maintenance requires extensive mowing, and the club has received a $50,000 grant towards a new 15-foot spread mower, costing $78,000, to complement its existing eight-foot spread mower.
Rutherglen Golf Club is grateful for “good working relationships” with North East Water, the parks committee, and the showgrounds committee regarding water and other matters.
The work of volunteers is invaluable, with Mr. Baring praising David Ward and his team for on-course work and Steve in the kitchen.
“The club is going along in leaps and bounds,” Carol Fursdon concluded.
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