Following the decision of the Office of Sport – NSW Government to allow golf to resume across the State under the current Public Health Order, Golf NSW has answered the following questions.
Do we have to open our Golf course now that the Office of Sport – NSW Government has approved the playing of golf?
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.
Can we play competition golf?
Yes. Under the new advice from the Office of Sport – NSW Government, no condition 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.
Can two family members who live together both ride in the same golf cart?
No. Social distancing regulations can be enforced in public, regardless of family connections. If carts are to be used, only one person should be allowed in the cart at any one time, and one bag allowed on the back of the cart.
Can I get a ‘One-on-One’ lesson from the Professional at the Club?
Yes. Under the new advice from the Office of Sport – NSW Government, there are no conditions 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.
What is the ‘elderly’ age limit for golfers to be allowed to leave their home to play golf?
On Sunday March 29, Scott Morrison, the Prime Minister of Australia strongly recommended against any person over the age of 70 leaving their home, unless absolutely necessary.
While a club cannot be fined for not following this advice, based on the increased risk of this age group to COVID-19, Golf NSW strongly supports the Prime Minister’s recommendation.
Am I entitled to a membership fee discount at my Club?
Any matter pertaining to a membership discount fee is a matter between the member and their Club.
Will Golf NSW be discounting affiliation fees for clubs?
Golf NSW will make a decision regarding affiliation fees once:
– The exact financial effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on Clubs can be ascertained.
– The extent and impact of Federal and State Government financial stimulus initiatives on Clubs has been determined.
Can Club volunteer working bees still go ahead?
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.
Can I use the course driving range and putting green to practice?
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 on the practice putting green, or in the hitting bays at any one time should be communicated via signage and enforced at each location.
The Questions and Answers above follow on from advice Golf NSW passed on to golfers late last week. These recommendations are:
- No sharing of golf carts. Consider removing cart use all together and Disinfect carts before and after use
- Increase intervals between tee times
- Play in groups of 2 and we strongly advise clubs to use one starting tee only
- Adhere to the 4 square metre distancing rules as a minimum
- No presentations at the conclusion of competitions
- Ensure contact with golf-related infrastructure is minimised
- Leave the doors to Pro Shops open
- Introduce the new modified Rules of Golf so that flag sticks and bunker rakes aren’t touched
- Reduce hole depth
- ensure personal hygiene standards are maintained at the highest level
- Don’t attend the golf club if you feel ill, or have been in contact with someone who is
- Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands
- Don’t shake hands
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth because your hands touch many different surfaces and can easily pick up viruses
Remember, let’s create a culture which ensures we can keep our golf courses open.