Over the week ended 14th January, the course received 157mm of rainfall which has topped up all the dams to 100%.
As you all would be aware, the 14th green reconstruction is starting to take shape and you will now be able to see the outlines of what is to be the green with bunkers slowly being shaped into the surrounds. Over the next week drainage with the appropriate root zone material will be added to the green.
Around the course, staff are being kept busy with the recent rainfall creating an increase in turf growth. We always aim to get all surfaces cut but sometimes due to time constraints / weather conditions, some out-of-play areas are reprioritised to another available time.
All greens were aerated on Tuesday, 16 January. This maintenance practice which is conducted on a monthly program plays an important role in maintaining turf health for the green surfaces. I understand at times this may be disruptive but please be reassured, this is an important cultural practice to ensure that we continue to produce a high standard of playing surface for all members and guests.
You may notice around the couch green surrounds, which are 1, chipping green, 4, 9, 17, 18, that we have begun conducting spot spraying applications. We are conducting these applications to help eradicate all kikuyu which has germinated in the surfaces. The kikuyu which is wanted in most parts of the golf course is not wanted in the couch grass so this is deemed a weed in these locations. The grass will be discoloured after a number of days but it will recover in a week or two.
Luke Telford - Course Superintendent