Oatlands Enews – Friday, 7th March 2025
Content
This week’s Enews covers the following topics:
- New General Manager – Robert Blain
- From the Course
- Pennant Update
- 2025 Husband & Wife Trophy
- Free Joining Fee for Women – Limited Time Offer
- Captain’s Corner – Dress Regulations and Standards
- Proshop Offers & Events
- Upcoming Member Events
- Wine Specials Ahead of a Wine List Update
- Bar Tab and Visitor Vouchers – Expire 1st April 2025
- Recent Trophy Event Winners
- Upcoming Golf / Trophy Events
- Members Only Facebook Group
New General Manager – Robert Blain
The Club is pleased to announce that after a thorough selection process, Oatlands Golf Club has appointed Robert (Rob) Blain as the new General Manager. Rob comes to Oatlands from his current role as the General Manager at Eastlakes GC and has over 20 years of experience in the golf industry with broad experience across all facets of the industry. Rob is sure to be a great fit and addition to the Club as we enter a challenging but exciting time ahead.
The commencement date for Rob to join Oatlands Golf Club will be the 7th of April, and we look forward to welcoming Rob at that time.
From the Course
Rainfall for the week – 20.5 mm
Rainfall for 2025 – 245.0 mm
Dam – 90%
Green speed – 10 feet
The course team has spent time this week moving sand around in bunkers to ensure the sand is distributed evenly across the base of the bunkers. The team has dragged sand down from off the high faces of the bunkers which accumulates there naturally through play as players hit their shots. The team has also pushed sand back into the bunkers from the exit points, as the sand builds up in these areas as players rake their footmarks in the sand from where they play any shots, and as they exit the bunker. This work has been a good learning experience for our new casual staff, as they have learnt that moving sand each time we rake bunkers is much easier than having to move larger amounts periodically.
The cover on the Practice green has been removed this week as we were starting to see signs of disease development in the seed. Fungicides were applied to control any disease pathogens, and a light liquid fertiliser and beneficial bacteria has been applied to help the seed continue to grow. The rain this week has disrupted works down at the 19th green making the clay in the bunkers too sticky for the contractors to work on. Their focus was moved to the ponds and shaping their edges and tidying up debris from the work site such as the old blocks from the original creek. Amendment will be added to the green profile next week after the weekend’s rainfall so that we don’t risk it washing away if the rain falls too hard.
Turf growth remains strong with humidity and rainfall the main drivers for this. Fairways that were treated initially during our last application of regulator, are starting to show signs that the control of the chemical is starting to wear off. We will be making one more application to all fairways and roughs over the next week or two to keep these playing surfaces to the expected standard.
We have started another trial of an autonomous mower this week, with the Kress brand allowing the Club to use one of its robotic mowers to mow the 12th and 18th holes. This single unit will mow the fairways and tee pads, green and fairway collars, bunker and green surrounds. The areas have all been marked out using GPS, and the mower is programmed to cut each of these areas at our desired heights. Like the previous unit we trialled, the mower and its functions are all controlled via an app on a mobile phone.
Our volunteers were on course Monday morning performing a bunker run in front of the competition players before cleaning and trimming drainage pits, staking and securing the new trees on the 6th hole, path edging, poisoning of Parramatta Grass weeds, laying more turf on the surrounds of the practice green, and hand weeding Crab Grass weeds from the tee pads. The roses were also given their weekly trim by Mike Cuming. A big thank you to everyone who has generously dedicated their time this week at the Club! Your support and hard work never goes unnoticed, and we truly couldn’t do it without you. Your commitment and efforts make all the difference, and we are incredibly grateful for your assistance each week.
Greens will be cut on Saturday and Sunday morning. I will be setting pins on both mornings.
Happy Golfing!
The Course Team.
Pennant Update
Men’s Major Pennant
The Oatlands Major Pennant team have secured their spot in the 2025 Semi Final with one week left in the sectional season after a convincing 7-0 win against Manly GC on Sunday morning. It was a great display of golf from the whole team as they defended their home turf against the team running 2nd in our section who knew they had to come here and win to have a chance to move forward into the finals.
The team will now play Manly away on Sunday the 9th with the chance to complete their season undefeated with either a half or win. We will then find out who we will play in the Semi Final that will be played on Sunday the 16th of March.
Thank you to all of the members who have come out on the Sunday mornings each week to support the team and watch some great golf and please be sure to check next week’s update to find out where the Semi Final will be played.
The team picked to play this weekend at Manly is below:
- Young Park
- Wil Reece
- Grant Lomas (c)
- Nathan Wareham
- Luke Mason
- Ian Priest
- Charlie Kim
Res. Blair McDonald
Mixed Pennant
Our Mixed Pennant team played in a Quarter Final against Northbridge at Massey Park on Sunday. Northbridge had gone through the season undefeated, so it was always going to be a tough match. However, when the going got really tough at the start of the back 9, with all matches in the balance, Oatlands lifted and went on to secure a very exciting win. A special mention to Tony Monaghan and Lizzie Sorbara who had the closest match but got the crucial win on the 17th green!
Results:
Debbie Jepson & Vish Tandon – Won 5/4
Justa Kim & Lindsay Macinnes – Lost 5/4
Stephanie Monaghan & Pete Crawford – Won 5/3
Michelle Kelly & Denis Ledwidge – Lost 2/1
Lizzie Sorbara & Tony Monaghan – Won 2/1
35 Golf Clubs and it’s now down to 4. Oatlands play next Sunday in the Semi Finals against The Coast at Monash at 12:12pm.
2025 Husband & Wife Trophy
The 2025 Husband & Wife Trophy is being played on Sunday 23rd March. To ensure we get as many eligible pairs entered as possible, we will again be opening up early bookings for Husband & Wife and de facto couples. Please contact Grant Lomas via email (golf@oatlandsgolf.com.au) with your member numbers and preferred tee time to have an early booking made.
Free Joining Fee for Women – Limited Time Offer!
Oatlands Golf Club is thrilled to announce a special promotion aimed at encouraging more women to join our vibrant golfing community. From now until 31st May 2025, all women who sign up for a playing membership will have their joining fee waived!
This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to growing women’s golf and ensuring that our women’s golf program continues to thrive well into the future. Whether you’re an experienced golfer or new to the game, this is the perfect opportunity to become part of a welcoming and supportive golfing environment.
Why Join Oatlands Golf Club?
- A Welcoming Community – Meet like-minded women who share a passion for golf.
- Beautiful Course & Facilities – Enjoy playing on our stunning and well-maintained course.
- Women’s Golf Program – Take part in competitions, social games, clinics, and exclusive events designed to enhance your golfing experience.
- Coaching & Development – Improve your skills with access to professional coaching and clinics.
How to Take Advantage of This Offer
Simply contact our Membership Team and complete your application before 31st May 2025 to have your joining fee waived!
Call us at: (02) 9630 4444
Email us at: administration@oatlandsgolf.com.au
Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to play the great game of golf, connect with fellow members, and enjoy everything Oatlands Golf Club has to offer. We can’t wait to welcome more women to our Club!
Captain’s Corner – Dress Regulations and Standards
At Oatlands Golf Club, we pride ourselves on maintaining a welcoming yet respectful atmosphere for all members and guests. A big part of this is ensuring that we uphold the tradition of golf and our Club’s culture through proper attire. As such, we want to take a moment to remind everyone of our dress standards on the course and throughout the Club.
Why Dress Standards Matter
The way we dress at Oatlands GC reflects the values and traditions that make golf so special. It promotes respect for the game, fellow golfers, and the Club itself. Adhering to these standards ensures a comfortable and respectful environment for all members, regardless of their level of play.
Golf Course Dress Code
While out on the course, proper attire is required at all times. The following guidelines help maintain a professional and respectful atmosphere:
- Collared Shirts: Men are required to wear collared shirts, and women are encouraged to wear golf-specific tops. This ensures that all players maintain the dignity of the game.
- Golf Shorts or Trousers: Golf shorts must be of appropriate length and tailored (knee-length or slightly above). Tailored trousers and shorts including cargo style are permitted and must be worn with a belt. Pants with full elastic or drawstring waists and denim and not permitted.
- Footwear: Golf shoes with soft spikes are required on the course. Please avoid wearing sneakers or any type of footwear that could damage the course.
Clubhouse and Dining Area
When visiting the clubhouse or dining areas, we ask that members maintain a neat and presentable appearance. The following standards apply:
- Collared Shirts & Tops: Collared shirts are recommended for both men and women in the clubhouse. No athletic wear, tank tops, or excessively casual clothing is permitted.
- Appropriate Footwear: Members and guests are asked to wear clean footwear. Flip-flops or sandals are not appropriate in the clubhouse.
- Hats & Caps: Please remove hats and caps when entering the clubhouse and dining spaces out of respect for the Club environment.
Reminders for Special Events
For special events, tournaments, or outings hosted by the Club, members are encouraged to adhere to any event-specific dress codes provided in advance. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a formal event, dressing appropriately ensures we all maintain a high standard.
We Appreciate Your Cooperation
By following these guidelines, we ensure that our Club remains a place where tradition is honored, and members feel comfortable and respected. We appreciate your commitment to maintaining the standards that make our Golf Club a fantastic place to play and socialise.
If you have any questions regarding our dress code, please do not hesitate to contact the clubhouse staff or consult the full dress code policy posted on our website.
Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to our Club’s values.
Good Golfing!
Matt Seamons
Club Captain
Proshop Offers & Events
MGI buggy & Bag deal
While stocks last, buy an MGI Navigator AI buggy and receive a free MGI Cart Bag valued at $379 to match your brand new buggy.
Titleist Club Fitting Day – Friday April 4th
Upcoming Member Events: March
The Bistro 94 & daily bar menus have both been updated from March 7th so make sure to get down to the club and check out the new offerings from the Oatlands Kitchen.
The Club has lots of fantastic events coming up for members and guests, and we encourage members to take part in the Club’s diverse event offering over the coming months:
- Friday 7th March, Bistro 94 NEW MENU!
- Friday 14th March, Bistro 94
- Friday 21st March, Bistro 94
- Wednesday 26th March – Bettington Restaurant
- Friday 28th March, Bistro 94
Wine Specials Ahead of a Wine List Update
The Club’s Wine List is being updated over the coming month and as such, there are a number of wines currently on the list that are being run out.
With the Members Bar Account Credit expiring on 1st of April, now is a great time to grab one of our wines before the new wine list becomes available.
Bar Tab and Visitor Vouchers – Expire 1st April 2025
Members are reminded that their annual Bar Tab credit, and Visitor Vouchers (Visitor Vouchers allocated to Full Playing and 6-Day members only) will expire on 1st April 2025, at the commencement of the 2025-26 Membership year.
Bar Credit can be used for clubhouse and takeaway food and beverage purchases, along with attendance at Club dining events such as “The Bettington” nights and “Bistro 94”.
Visitor Vouchers can be used to bring non-member guests during competition or social play with no green fee payable.
Members are encouraged to visit the “MEMBERS ACCOUNT” section of the Club website to confirm the status of your Bar Tab and Visitor Voucher accounts for 2024-25 and utilise the remaining credit on or before 31st March 2025.
Recent Trophy Event Winners
Men’s
Autumn Medal – The Autumn Medal ended in a tie with Daniel Wahbe & William Skelton both shooting nett scores of 66. The winner will be decided by a play off during the next scheduled stroke round which is Saturday April 5th.
Ladies
On 24th February, Kam Chee Wong won the Shirley Davies trophy, presented by Michele Hannaford and Jill Vale.
And on Thursday, 6th March Jenny Doherty & Jenny Park played the Final of the President’s Cup with Jenny Park winning the match 2&1.
Upcoming Golf / Trophy Events
Men’s
- Saturday 8th March – NB Charlton 4BBB Knockout Qualifying
- Saturday 15th March – Memorial Bowl
- Saturday 22nd March – NB Charlton Round 1 (round of 16)
- Saturday 29th March – NB Charlton Quarter-finals
Ladies
- Thursday 13th March – Club Medal
- Monday 17th March – Irish Team Stableford
- Thursday 20th March – Grace Norris Qualifying
- Thursday 27th March – Grace Norris Rnd 1
Mixed
- Sunday 23rd March – Husband & Wife Trophy
Members Only Facebook Group
If you aren’t already part of our Members Only Facebook Group, join up now and join in the conversation.
This group is where members can share their experience of Oatlands Golf Club and chat to one another about interesting things happening in the world of golf and society as a whole.
Importantly, members are advised that this social media platform will not be used for the Club to communicate critical information, which will remain via the Enews, website and direct email however, it is a place that members and the Club can post interesting Club and golf related items to compliment this Enews.
To join the Members Only Facebook Group please click on the link below and then click on the “JOIN GROUP” button. You will be asked a few questions to verify you are a member and then approved by the group administrator shortly thereafter.