We Listened, We Learnt, We Planned
Some months ago, we sent out a survey for all to provide feedback to the Board and Management of the Club so that we can make LRGC even better.
While we pre-empted some results, we were pleased with some really positive feedback on a few points that took us by surprise.
The Golf Committee took time to review the feedback on what parts of the course needed improvement and while we regularly hear feedback directly from Members, it has been nice to see opinions trending a certain way. A few points that we'd like to highlight:
Greens
It is most likely no surprise that the greens here at LRGC are something to be very proud of. Pete and his team work very hard to maintain their standard, particularly with over 62,000 rounds of golf played last year. Overall Rating - Very Satisfied
While we are happy with Very Satisfied, there is always room to improve. The Golf Committee and the grounds staff continue to work together so that we keep on top of maintenance and our greens to look as good at the end of summer as they do at the start.
Bunkers
The survey to Members was conducted before the completion of the bunker audit and we knew what was coming. The inconsistency of the sand & drainage in many of the bunkers caused many an expletive!
Overall Rating - Neutral
We are interested to hear the Members thoughts on the new bunker sand and drainage once we get back to normal playing conditions. Unofficially, we're hearing good things so please provide feedback when the opportunity arises.
Practice Facilities
Again, the level of dissatisfaction here was forecast. Long, dry, unkept have all been adjectives used to describe the practice fairway while the nets near the 9th tee were worn out and needed treatment.
Overall Rating - Neutral
Over the last few months, the golf committee has worked with the course staff to plan improvements to the practice facilities and have invested in new nets near the 9th. The path between the 8th Green and 9th tee has gone in and has vastly improved the area. The practice fairway has been mown shorter and will soon have plates (raised areas) installed as targets. The rear mound will be lowered to make the area safer and more user friendly for those choosing to use it. For those looking for an escape while playing to the 18th green - Watch this space!
Pace of Play
We play golf for enjoyment but when rounds extend well over 4 hours, a little of that enjoyment is taken away. Overall, pace of play satisfied Members however the Golf Committee have been reviewing round time reports generated from MiClub which have supported some of the comments in the survey.
Overall Rating - Satisfied
The Golf Committee will be introducing a pace of play policy in the next month. We continue to remind Members, that it is each and every Member who is responsible to maintaining their position in the field, that is directly behind the group in front.
MiClub
Booking a round of golf has been likened to a hot potato these last few months. COVID has placed pressures on the booking system far beyond anything that we predicted. MiClub was installed AFTER the latest Member's survey and with an importance of high,the Golf Committee is working to make sure we look after as many Members as possible.
Overall Rating - Neutral
Recent changes to sheet opening times and 100% internet only have been hard to take in all at the same time, however, we haven't made these decisions lightly and have done so for the benefit of the entire membership.
Pro Shop
Our pro shop is more than a place to sign in and although some (myself included) are generally in a rush to get to the first tee, there is more to see in the Pro Shop than the smiling faces of Danny and his team.
Overall Rating - Good
New carts, new pull trolleys and plenty of specials coming up are some recent improvements to the Pro Shop and our offering to Members and Visitors.
Some Members made comment about a lack of tee times on a Sunday. Unfortunately we are a public access golf course and our lease arrangement with Council limits the number of available tee times to Members on a Sunday.
All in all, we are pleased with the survey results and thank you to all of those who completed the survey. We appreciate the feedback and please take the time to thank the course staff for making our course such a special place to play.
Cam Gillespie | On behalf of the Golf Committee