The NSW State Government yesterday announced further easing of COVID-19 restrictions around outdoor gatherings.
The change from a maximum of numbers two to ten persons will now allow the play of golf in groups of four from Friday, May 15, 2020.
Please note that clubhouse closure (except for the service of takeaway food and beverage) and social distancing requirements remain in place.
Golf NSW recommends that Clubs continue to implement modified playing conditions that reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 by contact, that is, flags left in, no rakes in bunkers, no swapping of scorecards etc.
Yes. From Friday May 15 under outdoor gathering limits the play of golf in groups of four is allowed.
Yes. there is no condition/restriction that prevents the play of competition golf if the Club can implement and enforce gathering and social distancing measures in line with regulations and the NSW Public Health Order. Consider playing stableford or par to reduce round times. Avoid four person ambrose events that introduce increased opportunity to breach social distancing rules.
You may also utilise two tee starts if this can be achieved at your club whilst maintaining social distancing. Avoid shotgun starts.
Clubs are permitted to serve seated meals with table service beverages (including alcohol) up to a maximum of 10 persons at any one time as long as social distancing requirements are met.
Golfers should not gather in groups to drink pre or post round unless they are being served food with beverages in a seated capacity at the club.
Food and drinks can still be served from the clubhouse in the form of ‘takeaway’ and must be consumed off the premises.
Yes. Provided gathering and social distancing measures are in line with regulations, and the NSW Public Health Order is implemented and enforced.
A limit on the number of people allowed (a maximum of 10) on the practice putting green, or in the hitting bays at any one time should be communicated via signage and enforced at each location.
It is a club’s decision to what extent practice facilities are made available to members and social golfers.
Recent advice from the NSW Health Minister has determined that two family members living together can share a golf cart.
Golf NSW recommends that golf clubs should consider not allowing this practice as there are several potential issues that could arise. These include:
Yes. there are no conditions/restriction that prevent a golfer having a lesson if the Club/Professional can implement and enforce gathering and social distancing measures in line with regulations and the NSW Public Health Order. Outdoor group lessons of a maximum of 10 persons is permissible.
No. It is not compulsory for golf courses to open. The opening of your course/pro shop is your Club’s decision.
A club which feels they cannot provide a safe environment for members, staff, public, and/or cannot implement and enforce gathering and social distancing measures in line with regulations and the NSW Public Health Order should strongly consider not re-opening.
Clubs can only hold an AGM under current Public Health Order restrictions relating to public gatherings, that is, remotely or virtually via video conference or the like.
ASIC has provided a two month extension to the current five month time limit to stage an AGM from the end of the Club’s reporting period. For example, a Club with a 31 December 2019 financial year end will have till 31 July 2020 to stage their AGM.
If a Club can conduct their board meetings remotely/virtually by video and or phone conference, they should do so. Clubs which must conduct a ‘face to face’ board meeting should check with their local law enforcement agency if this is permissible.
Any matter pertaining to a membership discount fee is a matter between the member and their Club.
Golf NSW will make a decision regarding affiliation fees once:
Golf NSW recommends to Clubs that course works from volunteers/Dad’s Army style working bees cease temporarily under the current NSW Public Health Order and Government guidelines unless it is an emergency and absolutely essential.