FROM THE PRESIDENT
It feels like the start of autumn has been a relatively quiet period around the club, but there has still been plenty happening behind the scenes, with some significant contributions from members worth highlighting.
Firstly, a big thank you to Kevin Armstrong for taking the time to run two Golf Rules sessions for members. These sessions were very well attended and much appreciated by those who took part. Golf rules are not always well understood, and there is always something new to learn or clarify. The feedback has been very positive, and it is clear members appreciated both the content and the easy-to-understand way it was delivered.
Kevin has also once again run the She Loves Golf programme over the summer. This initiative continues to be an excellent way to introduce women to the game in a welcoming and supportive environment. It's an important part of growing the club and creating an inclusive membership, and we're very grateful for the time and energy Kevin puts into making it such a success.
A big thank you also to the Woodies for their work clearing the large macrocarpa that was blown over on the 9th fairway, as well as the willows on 18. Not only do the Woodies do a great job tidying up fallen trees and continually trimming and maintaining the many trees around the course, but they also make a meaningful contribution to club funds through preparing and selling firewood. The club would be poorer in more ways than one without this group of willing workers.
When it comes to maintaining the course in the excellent condition we all enjoy, I also want to acknowledge Pete Cederman, our Grounds Convenor. Pete spends hours each week on the tractor mowing the rough, which not only keeps the course looking tidy, but also gives those of us who regularly stray into it a much better chance of getting the ball back into play. Pete's efforts allow our greenkeepers to focus on their many other important tasks around the course, so the benefit of the significant time he spends on the tractor is felt across the whole course.
Meanwhile, the Club Championships are now underway. There's the usual buzz around the course, with "who did you play?", "who won?", and-for those progressing-"who are you playing next?" frequently being heard around the club. We wish everyone still in the running all the best for the remaining matches and look forward to seeing how the championships unfold.
It has now been six months since the new Constitution and accompanying Bylaws came into effect, replacing the previous versions. As expected, applying them in practice will highlight some areas where refinement is needed.
Accordingly, the Management Committee may from time to time make amendments to ensure the Bylaws remain clear, practical, and fit for purpose. Whenever changes are made, these will be communicated to members, so everyone is aware of what has been updated.
At the April meeting, the Management Committee approved a refined version of the dispute resolution procedures. The updated version has been posted on the club website alongside the current bylaws. If you would like to provide feedback before these procedures are formally incorporated into the Bylaws, please speak to me or email me-or any member of the Management Committee-before the end of the month.
At the same meeting, the Management Committee also progressed its thinking on the House Account Loyalty Scheme. This has been under consideration for some time and is now at the point where I expect to be able to announce its implementation and commencement within the next week or so.
Ahead of its launch, I will circulate an explanatory email to all members outlining how the scheme will operate.
Finally, to the many members who give their time, share their views, and help make the club what it is today-thank you all!
Ron Noordijk
president@motuekagolf.co.nz
FROM THE HOUSE CONVENOR
The Kitchen alterations mentioned in the last newsletter have now been completed with the final work being the repairs to the vinyl flooring. With the benefit of time, our staff had indicated replacement and additional equipment would lead to improved working conditions and output and overcome some minor health and safety issues. Specifically, we have:
-Moved the fresh food chiller from the main seating area to the Kitchen and replaced with a smaller sandwich chiller.
-Acquired a vertical frost free freezer.
-Acquired a thermowave oven.
-Installed an induction hob.
-Replaced the unserviceable dishwasher.
-Replaced the aged glass steriliser.
-Installed Gas hot water
-Installed a bug/fly zapper
Paul
FROM THE GOLF CONVENOR
A reminder that as we will not be running our Anzac Day tournament this year due to it falling on the Mug Medal/LGU day, we will still be asking for your generosity toward the RSA Poppy Appeal. Cash donations may be placed in the designated container in the Matchroom when checking in. In addition, the Club will donate a proportion of the entry takings from the Saturday competitions.
Our 9 Hole Ladies report that on Monday April 20 they played in the Interclub tournament at Waahi Taakaro. After a weekend of rain the course was muddy but not too wet to play. Penny Brown, Gaye Milnes, Meredith Rayner and Diane Enoka represented Motueka against Waahi Taakaro, coming out with 2 wins, a draw and a loss...giving us 5 points to add to the table. Well done ladies.
Planning is in full swing for the inaugural 9 Hole National Women's tournament to be held at Motueka and Nelson from 10th to 12th November. If you have any family, friends or acquaintances that play 9 hole golf at other clubs do encourage them to join us for these 3 days of fun.
We are hosting the annual Festival of Golf on Thursday 30th April. There will be no casual or green fee play available until 2:30pm that day.
The Money Tree on Tiny (No4) is scheduled for a haircut. This will take place, weather permitting, on Thursday 7th May. As the work involves Traffic Management and will also impact on the playing area, the hole will be closed for the duration. Members and visitors playing that day should give themselves the score they would get two Stableford points for on that Hole.
The Champs for all categories wraps up on Sunday 10 May. We will adjust tee bookings that day to allow Championship competitors unimpeded play both morning and afternoon. Members who haven't made the Finals are welcome and encouraged come along to support these players.
As reported in the March newsletter, the Management Committee has agreed to shift Mixed Vets from Wednesday to Monday following feedback received to the Survey. The change will take effect next month with the May Mixed Vets at Motueka Golf Club to be held on Monday 18th.
The Mens Rowling Trophy (4 Ball Best Ball Matchplay on handicap - drawn partners) will commence on Saturday 23rd May. The field is limited to 32 entries (first in first served) Entries can be made on the sheet in the Clubhouse from 25th April. Further information will be sent to all Full Playing (eligible) males shortly.
Rex
NEW AND RETURNED MEMBERS
We welcome the following new and returned members:
Full Playing: Shyden Baker, Colin Eggers, Miro Soochoon, Arowen Taylor, Howie Timms & Julian Tonkin
9 Hole: Megan Blair, Stephen Simmons, Manu Parkin-Williamson & Carla Pirrett
Junior: Freddie Emery, Ben Halles & Taine Price
