GREENKEEPER INTERNATIONAL GI Published by the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association £5.50 OCT 2015

Featured Inside ECOLOGY IN ACTION Ant Darker on thriving wildlife habitats PRINCE OF PERSIA in Bahrain with Jordan Fairweather

and much more... Game of Thornes We meet Steve Thorne, this years victorious In memory of winner of the prestigious accolade of George Brown TORO Greenkeeper of the Year 2015

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B50 A4.indd 1 23/07/2015 18:36 WELCOME FROM BIGGA BIGGA

BIGGA President Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE

BIGGA President Elect Iain Macleod

BIGGA Chairman Les Howkins MG

BIGGA Vice Chairman Stuart Greenwood

BIGGA Past Chairman Chris Sealey

BIGGA Board Members Rob Welford, Andy Baker, Scott Reeves, Kenny MacKay, George Barr, John Keenaghan

BIGGA Chief Executive Officer Jim Croxton

BIGGA General Manager Tracey Maddison [email protected]

BIGGA Finance & Procurement Manager Steve Wragg [email protected]

Contact Us BIGGA House, Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF [email protected] www.bigga.org.uk George Brown Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833801

GREENKEEPER The Association Mourns the INTERNATIONAL Passing of a Greenkeeping Legend The official monthly magazine of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers This column starts, as does the main Association Limited. section of the magazine with the news As with everything, education is the key to Production of the passing of our 2003 Chairman, success so it is appropriate that this magazine Design & Artwork Production George Brown. An undoubted legend of marks the launch of the Continue to Learn Andrew Price the profession as well as a great man, I Programme at BTME 2016, the largest and Tel – 01423 560086 only knew him for a few years but I shall most comprehensive greenkeeper education www.andrewpricedesign.com remember him for the passion he showed event in Europe. Size isn’t everything but with @APriceDesigner for the promotion of greenkeeping and a 243 hours of content the 2016 programme Editorial mischievous sense of humour. is 13% larger than 2015 and, having been Communications Executive I first met him in 2011 at the Royal St formulated through member feedback should Steve Castle Georges Open Championship in his beloved represent an attractive option for all. With Tel – 01347 833800 ext 510 Kent, I think maybe a whole five minutes had BTME 2016 set to be busier than ever, I [email protected] passed before he played his first joke on me, am sure the programme will be incredibly @SteveCas12 but it was clear from the very first conversation popular, it is a cliché but ‘book early to avoid Advertising that he was hugely proud of his profession disappointment’! Business Development Manager and believed passionately in BIGGA’s drive to Jill Rodham gain recognition for the professionalism of his And speaking of education I must offer my Tel – 01347 833800 ext 519 fellow greenkeepers. I am sure you all join me congratulations to all the finalists in the recent [email protected] in offering condolences to his wife, Brenda, and Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year event. @JillyPops12 his two children, Paul and Sarah. The standard just keeps on rising, year after Printing year, and as usual it was absolutely inspiring to Warners Midlands Plc, The Maltings, Manor Lane, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH Since George’s sad passing I’ve had many spend time with such talented and ambitious Tel – 01778 391000 | Fax – 01778 394269 conversations about him with his former greenkeepers. Steve Thorne proved himself Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise colleagues, friends and peers. Alongside his to be the best of the best but it was a fiercely reproduced without written permission. Return postage must accompany all materials submitted aforementioned sense of humour a consistent fought contest. As ever it shows that this if return is requested. No responsibility can be theme has shone through in every recollection – wonderful profession is in good hands. assumed for unsolicited materials. The right is reserved to edit submissions before publication. his exceptional ability as a greenkeeper to serve Enjoy the read. Although every care will be taken, no the needs of both the turf and the customer. In responsibility is accepted for loss of manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Opinions expressed many ways George was a pioneer in this area, are not necessarily those of the Association, the famous Ailsa course at Turnberry was and no responsibility is accepted for such content, advertising or product information one of the first of the iconic Open venues to be that may appear. Circulation is by subscription. Subscription rate: UK £50 per year, Europe and genuinely open to the golfer, which brought Eire £65, Rest of the World £95. The magazine is levels of play far in excess of its rivals. George also distributed to BIGGA members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf industry, libraries and used all his skills and insight to ensure that central government. every golfer experienced first class surfaces whilst ensuring that the golf course retained its true links roots.

Fast forward thirty years and that balance still lies at the heart of greenkeeping. All of our members are custodians of a piece of land, all ISSN: 0961– 6977 want the very best for it, yet all have to present Jim Croxton, Chief Executive © 2015 British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association Limited surfaces for play come what may.

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 3 CONTENTS GI A look at what’s inside the magazine this month

OCTOBER 2015

FEATURES

8 George Brown Tributes to a greenkeeping legend

24 We take a look at New Saltex

26 Unscrambling Cation Exchange Capacity Focus on soils by Paul Miller

28 Course Conditioning and Training in Fife Laurence Pithie visits 26 Ladybank Golf Club

32 Ecology in action Transforming wildlife habitats

34 A Heathland Revolution Regeneration of heather and grassland in Nottinghamshire

38 Game of Thornes A review of the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Final

42 The prince of Persia Course management in 32 38 Bahrain, with Jordan Fairweather

46 Light Fantastic The results of this years BIGGA Photographic Competition

48 Species Management Ben Morgan’s detailed look at managing roughland

52 Hard Choices for Trees in Hertfordshire by Terry Mabbett 46 48

6 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd 28

REGULARS

3 Welcome From BIGGA 6 Chairman’s Word 8 Newsdesk - Scottish Golf Champs - Dothistroma - Whitelaw Bowl 42 18 Membership News 20 L&D News 22 Industry Update 58 Around The Green 66 Greenkeepers Training Committee 68 Buyers Guide 70 Recruitment 74 @BIGGALtd

Published by the British and International British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association Ltd 52 Golf Greenkeepers Association

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 5 Chairman’s Word BIGGA National Chairman 2015, Les Howkins MG, gives his thoughts for the month

Education focus as BTME approaches

September was a busy month with a golf finals weekend and lengthy autumn meetings at Richmond Golf Club followed by a drive up to BIGGA House for a Board of Management meeting and the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year final. I would like to publicly thank my team at Richmond for doing such a great job through the summer whilst I have been on Association business. October also sees one of my team retire from greenkeeping after 47 years in the industry - I wish Pat Kidd all the best and thank him for his hard work and dedication. The Board meeting was, once again, “Steve Thorne is the TORO Student Greenkeeper of the a productive few days. Work continued on the Strategic Plan, thank you to Year 2015 winner – congratulations to him and I wish everyone who took the time to fill out him all the best in the States as he claims his prize.” the last survey. There will be one more member survey to help us complete the work and time to ensure education first served basis - so early booking is process and I would urge all members is in place for all members to take encouraged. to take this opportunity to help shape advantage of. I implore you all to take It was with great sadness that the future of the Association. We these opportunities. Also, if you have I learned of the passing of George were also very pleased with the end of any non-member friends that would Brown. Dealing with the loss of a financial year figures, where BIGGA as benefit, consider taking them along friend or loved one is never easy; a business comfortably outperformed and maybe they will consider joining dealing with the loss of one such as its budget. The final figures, once BIGGA. This seems like a suitable time George will be even tougher. George audited, will be made public prior to to remind all members of the CPD was an amazing character, full of life, the AGM. scheme that we have in place. It’s free always a joker and a storyteller, a As the Board meeting finished I and easy to get registered and we are brilliant Greenkeeper and excellent was thrust into judging Toro Student now starting to see job adverts with golfer but most of all a true gentleman. Greenkeeper of the Year. Each year the a request for CPD Approved or Active He was looked up to by almost every decision gets tougher! In the end Steve status. Greenkeeper in the country and I was Thorne from Rushmore Golf Club was On 1 October there was just over lucky enough personally to get to know crowned 2015 winner – congratulations one hundred sleeps till BTME 2016. I him in the later part of his working life. to him and I wish him all the best in spent a productive morning with the We will all have stories about George the States as he claims his prize. As I CEO and other BIGGA team members that will make us laugh and smile, posed with Steve it was good to finally at the Harrogate International Centre I am sure they will be told for many get my hands on the trophy after trying for a planning meeting. At the time the years to come at BTME and other for years earlier in my career! Well Bridal and Wedding show was in full networking events, he will go down done to all the finalists, it looks great flow and I think it’s fair to say the halls in history as a Greenkeeping legend. on the CV. look a lot different filled with models George will be greatly missed and my The BIGGA Walkers completed their in wedding dresses instead of mowers, thoughts and condolences and those 60-mile hike to BIGGA House in aid of tractors and chemical bottles. of the entire BIGGA fraternity go to the Benevolent Fund and I joined them As 2016 will see a return to a five George’s family. at the end of the first leg. Well done to hall show and the inclusion of GolfBIC, all of you, and more importantly well it may be worth considering extending Les done on putting up with Martin Brown your stay to ensure you get the most for two whole days! out of the experience. The Continue It’s good to see Sections and Regions to Learn programme is included with putting on many education events this month’s magazine, once again it’s Contact details through the winter. Committees and packed with useful, interesting and Les Howkins MG volunteers put in a huge amount of educational content on a first come Email: [email protected]

6 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd Funding your future The funding and assistance provided by BIGGA Partners and BIGGA Education Supporters underpins the Association’s considerable investment in Continuing Professional Development and all our educational activity. They are investing in the future of BIGGA members, we are hugely grateful and urge you to show them your support

Individual Contributors: Steven Tierney MG, Chris Lomas MG, Andrew Campbell MG CGCS, W J Rogers, Espen Bergmann, Nick Gray, Steve Dixon, Richard McGlynn, Douglas Duguid, Jaey Goodchild, Michael Beaton, David Barker, Greg Evans, Frank Newberry

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 7 NEWSDESK GI The latest news from around the globe George Brown 1938 – 2015 Everyone at BIGGA Man of Kent or, more cremation on October 2nd. more backbreaking and and the greenkeeping specifically perhaps, a For sure, George turning professional was far industry was saddened “prince” of Prince’s. He was conformed to Winston from the automatic process to hear of the death of a greenkeeper there as a kid Churchill’s assertion that it has since become. What George Brown, who was when his father was Caddie a man is lucky if his work is more, regaining amateur National Chairman of the Master and his mother did and pleasure are one but status was full of pitfalls Association in 2003. the cooking; and it was there was nothing lucky and long waits. George, who was 77, was there that he won the Kent about him becoming either In spite of this, George former Course Manager at Amateur championship a champion golfer or a was good enough to chance Turnberry, the legendary in 1973. It was to Prince’s champion greenkeeper. his arm as a professional links facility in South that he returned as Head However the road George in 1962 a year or so after Ayrshire, Scotland. Greenkeeper in 1975 and, trod was far from easy. the PGA abolished their Hailing from Kent, George with what he described The early 1960s were five year qualification was immersed in golf from as little more than two certainly years of hope and period for membership. an early age as a caddie, men and a rake, upgraded expansion but it was also In order to guarantee an greenkeeper, and also the course to the Open at a time when membership income, he doubled as extremely talented golfer. qualifying rota. In addition, numbers in Clubs were Professional/Greenkeeper He was appointed Course it was there that he played depleted, one or two at Alton in Hampshire but Manager at Turnberry in his final round of golf and it changed hands and money greenkeeping was his real 1985 and hosted three Open was there, fittingly, that his was scarce. Without today’s day job. In the early 1980s, Championships – 1986, many friends congregated sophisticated machinery, he was put in charge of 1994 and 2009, as well as to celebrate his life after his greenkeeping was rather the new development at countless other tournaments nearby Broome Park before and events. Turnberry provided the He received a Lifetime platform for him to display Achievement Award from his full skills. BIGGA in 2009. Typically, George never complained about his plight TRIBUTE FROM when making his way but DONALD STEEL his real legacy is that he Many a Scottish wanted something better greenkeeper has found his for future generations and, way south. George Brown more poignantly, fought was one of the few crushed hard to achieve it. There by the stampede as he were others who thought headed north. In 1986, at the same way, forming the “royal” command of themselves into a happy Jim Arthur, George was band of pilgrims to further appointed Head Greenkeeper the cause. Much has at Turnberry following happened in fifty years but the sudden death of his nothing to compare with the namesake, Russell. vastly improved conditioning As the Open and presentation of our championship beckoned in courses all over the world July, there wasn’t a moment from which all golfers have to lose but subsequent benefitted. events proved there was This is neither the never any doubt they had time nor place to name chosen the right man. It was names. BIGGA members the first of three Opens that can distribute their own George oversaw in 23 years, accolades but George’s a stay that won him Scottish robustly attractive sense adoption rights and the of humour ensured that affectionate title of George serious business wasn’t MacBroon. conducted without a smile However, he was a George Brown and a laugh. George and

8 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd GI NEWSDESK THE TRIBUTES FLOOD IN FOR A WELL RESPECTED MEMBER OF THE GOLF & GREENKEEPING ASSOCIATION

George faced his final illness FURTHER TRIBUTES... BIGGA AWARDS head on. He fought the good fight but it wasn’t an easy Chris Kennedy, former SPONSORED time for Brenda and family Courses Manager at BY JACOBSEN, and all will wish to convey Wentworth and one of PITCHCARE & GBR warmest condolences and George’s closest friends good wishes. said… TECHNOLOGY My first acquaintance “George was a special with George was in a South individual, hugely funny Eastern Counties qualifying and quite simply one of the event at Frilford Heath, the finest links greenkeepers year he was Kent champion. there ever was. He was a Unlike many other forms of pioneer in understanding golf, competitive tournament and achieving the balance golf makes everyone between managing a Donald Steel equal and, as a result, fabulous piece of links land, is wonderful for building one of the best there is, and Walter Woods engaged respect and friendship. meeting the expectations in ceaseless banter often It was certainly a great of his customers and during solemn meetings. prelude to our later working employers. One example was Walter’s together first at Broome At Turnberry in those contention that George Park and then at Turnberry. days he had to proactively was the expert in annual On the Ailsa, it may have manage a huge amount There is not long left to meadow grass. Oh well, involved little more than a of wear and tear and did nominate your friends or George responded, at least I few adjustments but the whatever he needed to do colleagues for the 2015 BIGGA Awards. The closing date for have got some grass to treat. creation of the Kintyre was a to ensure golfers, be they nominations is 31 October From the outside major undertaking in which humble amateurs or the elite with three fantastic categories looking in, my take is that George played a notable professionals, encountered up for grabs. greenkeepers are on a par part. excellent surfaces time after time. I used to love as a brotherhood with As an accompaniment to We are delighted to announce our ‘discussions’ with the lifeboat men and National his time in Scotland, George that Jacobsen are to sponsor likes of Jack McMillan and Hunt jockeys, doing what showed he had lost none of the BIGGA Young Greenkeeper has to be done without his skill as a player, rounds Walter Woods, who called of the Year award, Pitchcare fear or favour - frequently under 70 to win Medals or, him ‘Stripy’ Brown due is to sponsor the BIGGA in weather unfit for ducks. more usefully, a few pounds, to his focus on modern Greenkeeping Achievement Recent golfing history is being a common occurrence. presentation. Opinions of the Year category, whilst full of episodes whereby, When the Duke of York was differed in some areas but the BIGGA Championship only by the dedication and on service duty, George was he was always a loyal friend Greenkeeping Performance of hard work of the local staff more than once recruited to us all. We will all miss the Year will be sponsored by and an army of willing to act as partner and guide. him terribly.” GBR Technology. volunteers, have glittering The Duke may also not have shows been kept on the been immune from George’s The winners will be announced road. colourful jokes but what live during the prestigious Much of the headway may have impressed His ‘BIGGA Welcome Celebration’ made has revolved around Royal Highness rather more at BTME 2016 next January. proper training and was the pride George took education. Greenkeeping in the attention to detail on TO NOMINATE has become the job of a courses that can be spotted SOMEONE lifetime - for a lifetime - a mile away. As a leader, and much of that advance George was truly one of PLEASE VISIT is down to far-seeing greenkeeping’s Greats. luminaries such as George Donald is the chairman of www.bigga.org. and BIGGA who have picked the Greenkeeping Training up the baton and run with Committee, a noted golf uk/events/bigga- it. As their worthy Chairman course architect and writer. awards-2015 in 2003, BIGGA’s members Chris Kennedy will not be surprised that

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 9 GI NEWSDESK

COUNTY CRICKET CHRIS LAMB SLAUGHTERS TRIUMPH What a year it has been for 32 year old Neil Ivamy! THE FIELD Promoted to the role of Course Manager at Trevose, Portlethen as they produced a wonderful 27-hole links a fantastic course for the venue that features regularly competition. in GB&I’s top 100 lists and Other great scores on the then playing a key role in day came from Ian Scott of Downfield Golf Club, who won Cornwall County Cricket the Pattison Trophy (Second team’s first ever Minor Class) and Stephen Sutherland of Counties national final in 33 Carnoustie Links who took away years of trying. the third class prize of the STRI Cornwall handsomely trophy with a magnificent 41 defeated Northumberland stableford points tally. Overall the day was a great by seven wickets with 12 SGC Trophy Winners (l-r) Chris Lamb (Newmacher), Kenneth success and Jim Paton, Scottish overs to spare with Neil, a Mitchell (St Andrews), Stephen Sutherland (Carnoustie), Ian Scott Chairman was on hand to thank left arm spinner, taking 2-52 (Downfield), Derek Scott (Scoonie), Adam Lindsa (Deeside) all those that took part in the including the key wicket of competition and again thanked top scorer Gareth Breese, the patrons for their continued 2015 BIGGA SCOTTISH GOLF with a gross 74. bowled for 50. CHAMPIONSHIP support. Jim paid special thanks Neil Sadler, Course Manager On a badly rain affected Portlethen Golf Club - at Portlethen certainly provided to Neil and his team at Portlethen 6 August 2015 a stiff test for the competition for all of their hard work that was day it was typical of a An excellent 4-under par with the players using the black there for all to see on the day. greenkeeper to focus on the round of 68 by Chris Lamb of tees and with some devilish pin Jim provided a Quaich to the magnificent efforts of the Newmacher Golf Club was good placements on the greens. Neil golf club as a thank you and a groundstaff at the beautiful small bottle of whisky was given enough to see off the field at played extremely well himself by Wormsley Cricket Club to Neil. this year’s BIGGA Scottish Golf returning a one under score of in Buckinghamshire. The Championship. 71 winning the Ransomes First Jim concluded proceedings Chris played some excellent Class Trophy. by thanking the championship ground, founded by Sir Paul golf along with his playing Conditions on the day were sponsors, Circle Golf for Getty in 1992 was saturated partners on the day Adam excellent considering the poor providing support this year. by heavy rain, delaying the Lindsay from Deeside Golf weather this year but with only a Circle Golf has added to this start whilst the groundstaff partnership by providing FREE Club and Scott Thomson of couple of short showers, players removed 10,000 litres of entry to 4 members from each of Strathmore Golf Centre. Indeed were able to enjoy the course water from the pitch. the quality of the trio was there conditions in some warmth. the 5 sections at the September for all to see with Adam having Indeed players were full of praise 2015 and April 2016 outings. Said Neil “The guys did an a 2-under round of 70 and Scott for the greenkeeping team at amazing job to get the game on at all let alone to allow a SGGA Challenge Cup full 42 over match”. Place Player Club Gross Score As the Minor Counties Cricket Association Chris Lamb Champion Newmacher Golf Club 68 President, John Pickup Runner Up Neil Sadler Portlethen Golf Club 70 BIH remarked “Congratulations to Cornwall on a memorable Ransomes Trophy (First Class) win and an outstanding Place Player Club/Company Gross Gross Gross performance. A great day for the Republic of Cornwall!” 1st Neil Sadler Portlethen GC 70 1 69 2nd Adam Lindsay Deeside GC 70 0 70 BIH 3rd Douglas Melville Edinburgh Leisure 74 4 70

Pattison Trophy (Second Class) Place Player Club/Company Gross Gross Gross 1st Ian Scott Downfield GC 76 6 70 BIH 2nd John Stuart Deeside GC 79 9 70 3rd Blair Young Aitkens 80 8 72

STRI Trophy (Third Class)

Place Player Club/Company Gross Gross Gross 1st Stephen Sutherland Carnoustie 78 11 67 2nd John Wilson Irvine GC 91 18 73 Neil Ivamy 3rd Derek Scott Scoonie GC 85 11 74 BIH

10 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd PUTS THE COMPETITION TO BED

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@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 11

GI Truckster XD BED A4.indd 1 09/09/2015 09:07 GI NEWSDESK

GOLF DAY IN MEMORY OF LATEST INFO ROYAL MID-SURREY GREENKEEPER POSTER FROM

JACOBSEN

This month’s GI contains the final poster in a series of four provided by Jacobsen to aid members in communicating key issues within their clubs. As we head into winter the poster contains tips for golfers to help their course stay at it’s best during the inclement season. All of the posters can be downloaded from the Education section of the BIGGA website by clicking on ‘Information Posters’ on the left hand side of the page.

A group of twenty of Andrew and appropriate venue to Andrew’s best friend Jamie Kinsella’s friends and work celebrate his life. Scott, the group’s appointed SUPPORT YOUR colleagues gathered together Gavin Kinsella, Event Manager, adds, GREENKEEPER THIS for a memorial golf day at Courses Manager at “Today was a very special WINTER! East Sussex National on Royal Mid Surrey Golf occasion and everyone Friday 21st August. Sadly, Club acknowledges, “The involved appreciates the Andrew passed away on 8th extensive scope and generosity and assistance April this year aged just 38 affordability of the day of our supporters. We years old. including coffee, bacon rolls, would also like to thank One of Andrew’s first prizes for a variety of on- East Sussex National for

One of the main aims of turf management is to keep play on the main greens for as near Saturday jobs as a young course challenges, winning- their setting-up a fair but to 12 months of the year as possible. Greenkeepers have to take winter weather into account, so please follow these steps to help them as temperatures plunge. • Every effort is made by the greenkeepers to keep greens closures boy was as a caddie at East team prizes and an overall challenging golf examination • Some areas may be cordoned off for repair after inclement weather to an absolute minimum, however sometimes closures are (marked Ground Under Repair), please respect these areas. If your unavoidable. Allowing play on overly wet or frozen greens early in ball lands in a GUR area, refer to each club’s speci c guidelines the winter damages turf and should be avoided • Please replace divots and repair pitchmarks • Knocking off excess debris from shoes before walking on greens is Sussex National and he was individual winner’s trophy, in consideration that • Find out if the club or greenkeeping team has a blog. Many do, and also helpful this will give you up to date information on what’s happening on • Thank you for your cooperation; your assistance will greatly help the more recently an Assistant was only made possible our group of twenty the course greenkeeping team prepare a rst-class course for you to enjoy! Greenkeeper at Royal Mid- by the help and support of demonstrated diverse golfing Surrey Golf Club – so a golf- Avoncrop Amenity, TopTurf abilities and some peculiar www.bigga.org.uk day at East Sussex National Irrigation and Banks golfing skills!” www.ransomesjacobsen.com

17/09/2015 08:49 happened to be a relevant Amenity.” MJ15-073 BIGGA A3 poster 4 v2.indd 1 SOUTH COAST TURF CLUB

On Tuesday 18th August 2015 the third South Coast Section Turf Club was held at Hockley Golf Club, Hampshire. Despite still being in their infancy, these events are becoming increasingly popular, with just under thirty Section Members in attendance. Glenn Kirby, Course Manager, conducted the tour around the course. Glenn showed the group several areas that are managed sustainably in order to promote and encourage indigenous wild flower species. An in-depth description was given of the practices he, and his team, use to create these areas, and the methods used to harvest seed and propagate them elsewhere around the course. The group were also shown the systems and processes that have been developed to manage and record moisture levels of the greens and the action taken once that data is collated. The event was drawn to a close with a look around the newly refurbished Greenstaff facilities and machinery sheds. The South Coast Section committee, and the members who attended, would like to offer their thanks to Hockley Golf Club for allowing the visit to take place and in particular, to Glenn Kirby and his team, for their hospitality and taking time out of their busy schedule to show the group around.

12 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd GI NEWSDESK AMANDA INTERVIEWS JOHN MCLAUGHLIN

John McLaughlin

Hi John, great to catch up with you and learn how to become extremely patient. I feel AD: Do you play golf and if so, do you congratulations on your new position good things do not always come to those who have a membership? as Course Manager at Warrington Golf wait. Good things come to those who have the JM: I have enjoyed playing competitive Club and the recent arrival of your baby drive and enthusiasm to pursue them. golf for the past 25 years and I am also very daughter Honor Grace. proud to have been a member of The West AD: Social media is dominating how we Lancashire Golf Club for the past 20 years. I 2015 is proving to be a good year for you! communicate these days and I know that have held a handicap around scratch for all you are pretty active, what advice would of this time. Due to family commitments I am AD: How many years have you been a give to anyone who wants to improve how playing more social golf this year! greenkeeper and what led you down this they communicate to the wider public? career path? JM: Social media is now at the forefront Thank you John for giving us an insight JM: I have been in the industry since of the industry, like it or not. It can be an to your successful career. Best of luck for starting a HND in Golf Course Management excellent marketing tool to increase brand the future. and Turfgrass Science at Myerscough College awareness. I utilise social media as a form back in 1998. I have also been involved in of education. I have learnt so much from the golf industry for over 20 years, which following excellent threads, tweets and has played a massive part in my career. My posts regarding golf course management. passion for science and golf made this an Personally I try to embrace anything that has FAREWELL obvious career choice for me in what I believe a value to me and social media certainly does. is the best industry in the world. AD: Do you participate in CPD and do AD: What does your new role involve? think that it helps to support you career? DAVID JM: As well as overseeing the day to day JM: I am a strong believer in recording running of the course my role heavily involves continual professional development. It is inspiring, developing, training and upskilling widely embraced within other industries and the team. I have been busy putting into place I am extremely pleased with how BIGGA have procedures to allow each individual team embraced this and developed an excellent member to flourish and grow. I drive the system. In such a competitive market, when club’s five-year golf course management plan applying for jobs, being able to demonstrate and also direct the club’s greens committee. CPD will certainly help set you apart. I am in the process of developing a CPD scheme AD: Have you made any changes since within my team which annual bonuses will taking on your role? be based on. JM: I initially evaluated all of the club’s maintenance procedures and then where AD: Have you volunteered for any possible, made changes to bring these up to tournaments? Following 40 years of service, David best practice standards. The team have been JM: I worked as part of the support James Seabright will be retiring from extremely successful in implementing change team at last year’s Ryder Cup hosted by the greenkeeping team at Kingsdown bringing us up to a standard I am really Gleneagles. This was a fantastic occasion, Golf Club in October 2015. David started satisfied with. which I personally gained a lot from. More with the club in 1975 and will be greatly recently I supported the greenkeeping missed by all of his colleagues upon AD: What has been the greatest challenge teams at Regional and Final qualifying Open his retirement. On behalf of all of all of of your career to date? Championship venues. It is a great way of JM: I really enjoyed my role at my previous seeing first hand how leading Golf Course the BIGGA membership we offer you club but found it extremely frustrating at the Managers present their courses and how they congratulations on your contribution limited amount of opportunities available to manage their teams. to the industry and best wishes for the progress to Course Manager level. I had to future.

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 13 GI NEWSDESK JOIN IN THE ‘BUNKER CAMP’ Following on from last years’ successful bunker so much to learn from different opinions and ideas. This building camp Stuart Imeson and his team are again year with spaces already filling up we have decided to inviting everyone to join them on the stunning links of extend the camp to run over two weeks.” Dunstanburgh Castle. The camp will run from 16-28 November with ten Stuart is a member of BIGGA’s Young Greenkeeper spaces up for grabs. To join in please contact Stuart on Committee (YGC) and has this year increased the scale 07808 831172 or email s.imeson.dunstanburgh@live. of the camp to encourage more young greenkeepers to co.uk - please advise the dates you would like to join in get involved. during this period. With an average age of 23, Stuart and his team offer the The YGC will be holding a meeting on 21 November perfect environment for fellow young greenkeepers to both at Dunstanburgh Castle with its committee members network and learn. Last year’s camp was a great start to arriving early to help with the scheduled works, travelling what he hopes to continue as a yearly event. from all five BIGGA Regions. So, there is an option to car Stuart said: “It was a great start, we received enough share and an excellent opportunity for the YGC to meet interest to show that it would be worthwhile but not too more BIGGA members. Accommodation and daytime much where I would be overrun and I feel it was a good meals are provided for the duration of the camp. trial run for this year’s camp. We had a good mix of lads The main focus of the camp will be bunker design, and it was great to have so many bodies on the course. building, shaping and revetting. The construction of tee “Not only did I benefit by completing a huge part of our boxes, designing and creating run off areas will also be winter work programme, it was great to see that there is part of the camp.

BIGGA GOLF MANAGEMENT TROPHY SPONSORED BY EVERRIS

The BIGGA Northern Region of Everris. Golf Management Trophy The results were: qualifier sponsored by Everris 1st: Renishaw Park Golf Club was held at Dunham Forest 83 points Golf & Country Club on a mixed Mark Nelson day in terms of weather but a Andy Smith superb day in terms of course Kevin Greaves presentation, our thanks go to Phil Walker Course Manager Chris Gibson 2nd: Prestbury Golf Club and his team. 83 points The Dunham team treated Mark Crossley us all to a superb day from George Senior all aspects of the customer Simon Bolam experience and grateful thanks Paul Allen are extended to everyone at Congratulations to Renishaw the club. Park and Prestbury who will A closely fought contest took compete in the Final at Frilford a countback to separate the Heath Golf Club on the 19th leading teams. October. Thanks are extended The winners were presented to Everris for sponsoring the with their prizes on the day by event and to all the teams who Mick Fance and Phil Collinson supported the event.

14 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd INTRODUCING DISPATCH SPRAYABLE with three times the strength of Dispatch Penetrant!

We often think of soil water repellency only Benefits Include: during the stressful summer months. In reality water management is a year-round concern that • Late Autumn: Ensure maximum penetration of any rainfall or snowmelts that occur and improve soil moisture levels before should be managed consistently to maximise your the ground freezes. growing environment and avoid turf injury. • Winter: Prevent crown hydration injury by ensuring free water drains off of the surface during snowmelts. Even during the offseason consistency, uniformity, and stability matter to the health of your soil and • Spring: When the rootzone thaws in the early spring, benefit from better infiltration, more uniform soil moisture distribution, turf. Over the past few years, greenkeepers in the and improved plant function. UK and Europe have used Dispatch Penetrant to manage soil moisture heading into late autumn and during the winter months. ®

Now that same patented chemistry is available in the form of Dispatch Sprayable with three times the active ingredient! Starting with a Dispatch Sprayable programme this autumn will have benefits that carry through the winter and into the next growing season without harming the soil.

Doll

www.farmura.com | [email protected] | tel: 01233 633 267 GI NEWSDESK

ARCHIE’S ACE TWENTY YEARS TOO LATE... HELPS CENTRAL SECTION RETAIN NORRIE WHYTOCK CUP

The 19th edition of the Scottish Region’s annual inter-section competition, the Norrie Whytock Cup was held at Auchterarder Golf Club on Tuesday 25th August in ...TO TACKLE first brought to Britain in to manage the disease. The glorious sunshine. The Central disease is also rampant the eighteenth century and Section retained the cup, DOTHISTROMA ON which subsequently became on lodgepole pine of which making it their 6th success in PINES an important source of there is a lot in Scotland. softwood timber. Four years ago FC said the competition. Unlike last year, the By Dr Terry Mabbett But all was about to come Dothistroma needle blight crashing down for Corsican was endemic in UK and competition format required Preoccupied with newly pine. Spread of infection that “now is the time for each section to put forward a arrived exotic tree diseases and damage caused to action” when actually it was team of three players with all like chalara ash dieback, the Corsican pine was such twenty years earlier. There of their individual stableford UK Plant Health Authority that FC stopped planting are well over 100 different scores counting towards the has paid insufficient the species on its land pine species across the team total. and ceased to recommend world. Scores of these have attention to earlier arrivals Central’s score of 93 points planting elsewhere. There been planted in the UK and like Dothistroma needle held off the challenge from the blight of pines caused by is no planting ban as such a significant number are North Section team by only a fungal pathogen called but government will no susceptible to infection by two points. An excellent feat Dothistroma septosporum. longer provide grant aid Dothistroma septosporum. The disease was first found for planting Corsican pine. Defra and FC carry out considering the North Team in the 1950’s and ‘ticked Given the current economic inspections for Dothistroma included this year’s Scottish over’ for decades before state of UK commercial on seedling pines (all Champion, Chris Lamb! ‘mushrooming’ out of forestry this essentially has species) in UK forest The day belonged though control. the same effect as a ban. nurseries which will have to the host Course Manager, Originally the disease was Private landowners can hundreds of thousands Archie Dunn, as not only did still plant Corsican pine. of plants growing at any more instructively called red he lead the Central Section to Many golf courses have one time. Greenkeeper band needle blight (RBNB) victory but he also managed to describe characteristic Corsican pine and some International paid a visit to ace the 4th hole with a foliar symptoms of reddish may still be planting the tree to Prees Heath Forest sparkling 6-iron. Unfortunately necrotic bands around not realising exactly what Nurseries at Whitchurch the pine leaves or needles. it is. Corsican pine is one in Shropshire where no-one actually saw the ball However, in line with its of a dozen sub species of owner David Gwillam has go into the hole due to the pin penchant for name changing Pinus nigra (Austrian pine) thousands of pristine placement but nevertheless, it Forestry Commission which are often difficult to pines ready for sale this was a great shot that deserved (FC) renamed the disease distinguish. autumn. “There is absolutely the outcome. Archie’s four Dothistroma needle blight. Things were about to get no Dothistroma in this points on that hole certainly a lot worse when native nursery but just a trace of If more time had been helped his team which was Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), infection and we would get devoted to monitoring completed by Craig Boath and managing the disease previously regarded as a statutory control order to (Carnoustie) and Richard instead of agonising over only slightly susceptible, destroy all stock within that what to call it then the 409 started to go down in a block or field and with no Jenkinson (G-West) to secure million pine trees growing big way with Dothistroma. compensation” said David. the victory. across these islands in Private sector foresters Given that these pine All competitors were very forest plantations, parks carrying out disease trees will be planted in complimentary of the course and on golf courses would surveys for FC’s Plant the wider UK environment conditions, particularly the not be under such a serious Health England are telling where Dothistroma is greens and our sincere threat as they are today. The Greenkeeper International already endemic (prevalent congratulations must go that in disease spread and everywhere) then ‘overkill’ disease causes premature to Archie and his team for damage caused Scots pine is the word that springs to needle loss with massive outdoing themselves yet again. defoliation and crown is fast approaching levels mind about a policy which Jim Paton, Scottish thinning. experienced by Corsican appears to unnecessarily First infections found on pine. penalise UK nurseries. Why Chairman, thanked all pine seedlings in a Dorset Panicked by the prospect not approve the spraying competitors for taking part and plant nursery were followed of losing precious wildwood of all nursery pines with a their continued support of the by forest outbreaks in Scots pine in the Caledonian protectant copper fungicide Association. Wales. The disease took off Forest, FC Scotland recently to cover crops against He also thanked Bayer in the 1990’s on Corsican started aerial spraying trials infection and spread of CropScience for their pine (Pinus nigra subsp. using copper oxychloride Dothistroma needle blight. continued sponsorship and fungicide in a belated effort laricio) an exotic conifer Auchterarder Golf Club for

16 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd GI NEWSDESK hosting the event and providing the courtesy of the course and use of the excellent clubhouse WHITELAW BOWL facilities. The BIGGA Northern Region Championship for Our partnership with the the Whitelaw Bowl sponsored by Rigby Taylor took place at Penrith Golf Club where Willie competition sponsors, Bayer Whitelaw previously held post as both Captain CropScience is essential to and President. the success of the Norrie As is becoming the norm the day was great Whytock Cup and we were for golf with that useful bit of wind that makes grateful to Steve Bishop, the day more interesting. Neil Robinson and National Accounts Manager for his team had prepared a superb course and the attending the day to present changes over the past year were evident to the the prizes and provide a brief seasoned entrants of this competition. update on the new Turf Science The winner of handicap group 1-12, team at Bayer. and overall winner, was Neil Robinson on Archie and Craig received the a countback with a score of 36 points, Cup on behalf of the Central pictured are Neil, Tracey Maddison (BIGGA) and Phil Dewhurst (Rigby Taylor) with the Section and thanked everyone Whitelaw Bowl. Neil has accepted the BIGGA for making the day a success. Northern Region Prize of entry to the National Championship at Fulford Golf Club in October where we wish all entrants the best of luck. The winner of the handicap group 13-24 was Mick Nolan of Eden Golf Club with 36 points SPONSORED BY and winner of both Longest Drive and Nearest the Pin was Brian Story of Silloth on Solway Golf Club. Thanks go to Penrith Golf Club for being great hosts as always, to Rigby Taylor for sponsoring (l-r) Steve Bishop (BAYER), Archie Dunn the event and to everyone who entered the (Auchterarder), Craig Boath (Carnoustie), competition. Jim Paton (Regional Chairman)

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@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 17 Membership The latest news News from BIGGA

Membership News - the You can contact BIGGA House, You can also save money section which updates you on our Regional Offices, our with our BIGGA Xtra Benefits the countless benefits of being Personal Accident Helpline, scheme. More information can a BIGGA member. We’re on Legal Assistance and our be found in the Members’ Area hand to help. Lifestyle Counselling Helpline. of the BIGGA website.

Contact Details

Tracey Maddison General Manager traceymaddison@ bigga.co.uk

Elaine Jones Membership Executive [email protected]

Rachael Duffy Events & Membership Executive [email protected]

Tel: 01347 833800 (option 1 for Membership)

You can follow BIGGA on Twitter @BIGGALtd

BIGGA Regional Offices

Scotland & N. Ireland John Young 07776 242120 [email protected] Northern Sandra Raper 07866 366966 [email protected] @BIGGANorthReg Midland Roger Butler 07525 593 359 BTME REGISTRATION IS NOW LIVE! [email protected] @BIGGAmidlandREG BTME 2016 is shaping up BIGGA Turf Management four Halls which will again South East to be the biggest yet so why Exhibition: be packed with exhibitors Clive Osgood 01737 819343 not save time on the doors of from every corner of the turf 07841 948410 management industry. [email protected] the Harrogate International Tuesday 19 January @cliveosgood Centre in January, avoid the 08:30 – 17:00 queues and pre-register now. 2. BTME will again feature South West & the best education the turf South Wales Visit www.bigga.org.uk for Wednesday 20 January Tracey Walker the link to pre-registration. 08:30 – 17:30 management industry has 07841 948110 [email protected] to offer with another range @biggaswsw BTME 2016 dates: Thursday 21 January of fantastic speakers gearing 08:30 – 14:30 up to present at Continue to Continue to Learn Learn 2016, see C2L brochure OTHER USEFUL 17 – 20 January Why should you visit BTME enclosed. NUMBERS 2016? Here are three good (Full Members only) reasons why… 3. This year also sees a Personal Accident Helpline momentous partnership with 08000 516583 Greenkeepers Legal 1. The exhibition covers the Golf Business & Industry Assistance five Halls with Hall Q of the Convention (GolfBIC) presented 0800 177 7891 Lifestyle Counselling Helpline Harrogate International Centre by the UK Golf Course Owners 0844 770 1036 complementing the other Association (UKGCOA) and www.arclegal.co.uk/carefirst

18 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd MEMBERSHIP NEWS

the Organisation of Golf & Range new Learning Live programme on 5th About the BIGGA Operators (OGRO). This is a well- November: - established and popular annual event Greenkeepers Benevolent attracting top presenters and a wide 13:00 Presentation: How to develop the Fund range of delegates from every corner of best turf management plan to really the golf industry. make a difference – Improve your turf The BIGGA Greenkeepers Benevolent quality through measuring, analyzing Fund, a Registered Charity and the See us at Saltex – and effective planning with Steve official charity of BIGGA, exists to Gingell, STRI assist current or past members and Stand A190 their dependents who have suffered 14:05 Presentation: Primo MAXX – hardship, financial or otherwise. Come and see us at the NEC lessons from the past, thoughts for the Birmingham on 4-5 November 2015 future – An overview of Primo Maxx, If you would like to apply for a grant on stand A190. We will be able the sucessful plant growth regulator, please contact BIGGA House or your to discuss membership benefits, and its use in sports turf. How the Regional Administrator for more education matters, BTME 2016 product was introduced, initial information. Forms can be downloaded amongst anything else you may wish strategies and their evolution, and a from the Members Area of the BIGGA to ask regarding BIGGA. look at suggested strategies for future website. use - with Daniel Lightfoot, Syngenta; We also have two Seminars at the Henry Bechelet, Everris.

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 19 L&D News The latest from the Learning and Development department at BIGGA

Learning & Development and training, supported by funding your future. News has the latest updates our BIGGA Partners, BIGGA Contact the Learning & on CPD and everything related Education Supporters and Development team at BIGGA to greenkeeper education Individual Contributors – House for more information.

LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL

October is upon us, the nights Groundsman Conference, 11 that is available by giving you a are drawing in and Christmas is Career Development Sessions and Quick Guide to help you identify approaching, but never fear, there the launch of GolfBIC at BTME. education events that might be is light at the end of the tunnel…. most relevant to you, providing an Continue to Learn at BTME 2016! Full details of the programme overview of when and where the are available in the Continue to events will take place and if there is The largest education programme Learn at BTME 2016 brochure, a cost attached to them. ever seen at BTME will take centre included with this magazine. It is Individual Contributors: Steven stage from Sunday 17 – Thursday also available at www.btme.org. We are once again offering Seminar Tierney MG, Chris Lomas MG, Andrew Campbell MG CGCS, 21 January 2016. With four uk, www.bigga.org.uk and on the pre-booking for BIGGA members W J Rogers, Espen Bergmann, different venues required to BTME App, now available from providing fast-track entry into the Nick Gray, Steve Dixon, Richard McGlynn, Douglas Duguid, Jaey accommodate the education your app store. most popular seminars. You can Goodchild, Michael Beaton, events, it’s certainly going to offer read testimonials in the brochure if David Barker, Greg Evans, Frank something for all attendees. The new look programme has been you need to be convinced! Newberry split into six, colour-coded event Contact Details There are 243 hours of education types: Booking Bundles will be available Sami Strutt scheduled over the five days of again for Continue to Learn 2016. Head of Member Continue to Learn 2016 an increase • Conferences The Bundles can provide a saving Development 07818 405606 of 13% on 2015. The events have • Workshops of up to £117 when pre-booking [email protected] been selected using the Proposal • Focus On Sessions education for you or your team. Stuart Green to Present and Members’ Choice • Seminars Head of Member initiatives, therefore providing • Career Development Learning SCHOLARSHIPS [email protected] education that is relevant and Sessions @Stuart_BIGGA Jacobsen Higher Education Scholarship current to the sportsturf industry. • Partner Events Deb Burnett awarded to Kevin O’Neill from Muswell L&D Administrator [email protected] Continue to Learn 2016 will see We’re trying to make it easier for Hill Golf Club studying FdSc Sportsturf online at Myerscough College 01347 833800 (option 3) the introduction of a half-day you to see the range of education www.bigga.org.uk

20 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd L&D NEWS

Don’t forget that you can use the Courses Everris and Syngenta Turf Rewards • Cultural Management of ...... scheme to buy a booking bundle or Turfgrass Diseases pay for education events. • Health and Safety for Beginners All of our new Career Development • Managing Conflict and IT’S CONFERENCE sessions will be free of charge to Courageous Conversations BIGGA members, we’re expecting • Photography 101 TIME! places to fill up fast, so make sure • Time Management: 5 Steps to you book your places as soon as Getting Things Done Without ...... possible. Burnout or Stress! • Groundsman Conference It’s that time of year when the grass slows down Bookings can be made by • Preparing the CV That Gets and thoughts can turn to education. completing the booking form, You the Interview online through the website or • Stop Telling Your Team - Start There are some excellent conferences coming up during October by telephoning the L&D team Transforming Your Team! and November around the UK and Ireland. So, what better on 01347 833800 option 3. Deb • Appraising Your Mates at time to sit with a cup of your favourite hot beverage, pie/cake/ Burnett will be handling all the Work pastry and plan your autumn and winter education programme bookings and will update the • Putting Your Best Foot and keep building your CPD credits. Remember: Make yourself website as events sell out. Forward - Honing Your valuable, not vulnerable. Personal and Online We are expecting to welcome more Presentation Skills ...... than 3000 attendees through the • Problem Solving and Decision education doors in January. Make Making in Work Teams sure you don’t miss out by booking • Non-Herbicidal Strategies for Details of all events can be found on the BIGGA website at your place as soon as possible! Poa Control www.bigga.org.uk/events • Get In, Go Far 65% of the programme will feature • The Ohio State Internship ...... new education events including: Programme • GolfBIC Thursday 15th October • Basics of Soil Fertility • Learning the In’s and Outs Amenity Forum Conference, Leicester City Football Club • Delivering Your Message With • Trailblazer Apprenticeships: Impact The Future of Greenkeeper Wednesday 21st October • Structure, Function and Training North Wales Seminar, Royal St David’s Golf Club Identification of Turfgrasses • The Identification and • The Business of Golf – A Selection of Amenity Grass Wednesday 28th October Course Managers Guide Species and Cultivars for Golf North West Seminar, Myerscough College, Lancs • An Introduction to Scheduling • The Impact of Social Media Golf Course Maintenance and How to Make it Work Most Wednesday 11th November • Managing Upwards Effectively for You South East Regional Conference, Hadlow Manor Hotel, Kent • Delivering Your Message With • Building a Modern Day Links Influence Wednesday 11th November • Fertiliser Programmes from Plus 28 new seminar sessions Highland Conference. Nairn Dunbar Golf Club First Principles presented by invited guests and • Understanding Ecology Within exhibiting companies. Wednesday 18th November Successful IPDM on Golf South West Regional Conference, Somerset County Cricket CPD APPROVED MEMBERS THIS MONTH Ground, Taunton Iain Macleod – Tain Golf Club Tuesday 24th November Scott Roberts – East Berkshire Golf Club GCSAI Education Day, Croke Park, Dublin Andrew Weeks – Hockley Golf Club Wednesday 25th November Solway Conference, Smiths Hotel, Gretna ......

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 21 INDUSTRY UPDATE GI The latest turf industry news from around the globe

lowing expert advice, facing HEXHAM southeast, away from the prevailing wind direction. A recent project has seen over GO THE eighty small nesting boxes sited around the course too. Tree species spotted, along- EXTRA side traditional varieties, include Hornbeam, White MILE Beam, Red Leaved Oak, Cop- per Beech and Wellingtonia; Malcolm Lathan is course a magnificent giant redwood! manager of Hexham golf Care has been taken too club, a traditional parkland in the preparation of “wild course on fast draining land areas” on the course to en- on the south side of the courage wild life and provide River Tyne. a safe “stop-off point” when Working there for 25 years, crossing open areas. These Malcolm is justifiably proud havens are certainly im- of his achievements espe- pressive as the photograph cially with his environmental shows and, amongst the wild and sustainability initiatives. flowers, a native species of On a recent visit to the orchid is thriving. course and over a year since Malcolm’s determination the club had installed one of to create a healthy, living soil Highspeed Group’s ClearWa- has involved working with bi- ProCore SR72 – light enough ter washpad water recycling otechnology companies and, SALTEX Launch to be used on sensitive turf systems, MD David Mears over the last three years, he For New Toro but tough enough to handle was invited to see what had has been producing compost the most compacted soils – been achieved at the club. tea with an installed brewer. Mower will illustrate Toro’s aeration A brand new Toro ground- The ClearWater system The compost tea is applied range. was installed to ensure the scare mower will be Meanwhile, Lely will also twice a month to greens in launched at SALTEX 2015. club was compliant with leg- the growing season. The be exhibiting the ever-popu- Full details of the machine, lar TYM T503 compact trac- islation and, as mains water product also helps fight fun- which features a new cut- tor. was previously used, to save gal infection organically says ting concept, are being kept water. Malcolm is delight- This model is a firm fa- Malcolm. under wraps until the show. vourite with groundscare ed with the system and in The greenkeeping team’s But the company says the customers working on big his words, “it works far bet- hard work and an organic unit will have great appeal projects, thanks to a long list ter than the old hose and is ethos have resulted in a de- to councils and contractors of features including foldable very low maintenance. I’m lightful course and a wonder- looking for increased pro- ROPS, rear wiper, projection very pleased with the excel- ful golfing experience. They ductivity and efficiency to, headlamps, dual air filter, lent wash-off and installing do say that the course pro- for example, save money by and hydrostatic power steer- increasing the time between ClearWater fits in well with vides a tough enough test of ing. cuts. our sustainability program.” golf to regularly host County Holly Jones, marketing The system is well main- The new Toro will be joined manager at Lely, said: “We’re events, not to mention the on the stand by a range of its tained and the turf machin- stunning views of the sur- looking forward to showcas- stablemates for groundscare ing the new Toro mower at ery really clean; a credit to rounding countryside. professionals. SALTEX. It promises to be a the greenkeeping team. They include the highly But there’s more to sus- big hit with customers. The productive, heavy-duty Toro show has added excitement tainability at Hexham than LT3340 triple, and Grounds- with its new format and lo- the water-saving ClearWater master 360 zero-turn mow- cation and provides the per- wash system. Out around er, with its Quad-Steer all- fect launch platform. We look the course evidence of the wheel-drive steering. Added forward to welcoming every- work Malcolm and his team to these will be the Grounds- one to the stand, where our have been working hard on master 7210 rotary mower specialist groundscare ma- was abundant. There are with the industry’s toughest chinery team will be on hand owl boxes high in some of spindle assembly to guar- to give help and advice about antee long-term value. The the spectacular trees; all fol- all our products.”

22 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd GI INDUSTRY UPDATE Charterhouse Cater For All SALTEX always provides a great opportunity to get up to date on the latest prod- ucts available – and there’s no better stand to do that on than Charterhouse Turf Machinery. Stand K070 will play host to a vast array of equipment for the care of natural sports surfaces. suited for use by golf clubs, Also exhibiting at the two- As the autumn and win- Kubota landscaping professionals, day event is the 34HP STW ter approach, many turf care local authority maintenance 34 tractor, designed specif- professionals’ thoughts will Launching and for the management of ically to take on an exten- turn to the battles against New Tractor at professional sports facilities. sive list of jobs ranging from compaction and/or drainage. Charterhouse Turf Machinery SALTEX Adrian Langmead, Busi- mowing to loading work. offer a number of solutions in ness Development Manag- Users will have the benefit this field, with one machine Market leading tractor and er for Kubota’s Groundcare of standard spec power steer- of particular note being the groundcare equipment solu- division, commented: “Our ing and a Bi-Speed Turn fea- Redexim Verti-Drain 1513. tions provider, Kubota, will ride-on mowers and compact ture to combat the common This is at the smaller end of be exhibiting its new Grand tractors have always been problem of tyre drag and turf the Verti-Drain range and is L40-II Series deluxe tractors popular with maintenance damage when wheel speeds a very fast and versatile ma- at SALTEX for the first time specialists working in the are increased. chine that can work to an to the market on Stand C070 turf care and landscaping Kubota will also be show- impressive depth of 150mm. at the NEC in November. sectors, so the launch of the ing its 60HP M6060 with This 1.3m model can be con- The new innovative Grand Grand L40-II Series will fur- 18x18 multi-stage transmis- nected to a low horsepow- L40-II model features an in- ther enhance our position in sion and hydraulic shuttle; er tractor or used with the tegrated cab, designed spe- this sector as we continue to plus the economical 26HP self-propelled Redexim Car- cifically for operator comfort invest in new product devel- B2650 compact tractor, rier, which will also be on opment. which features HST or man- show. and increased productivity. Kubota’s newly branded “Kubota has been a market ual transmission options for With regard to overseed- leader in groundcare prod- optimal control and comfort. ers, Charterhouse has an HST Plus hydrostatic trans- ucts and SALTEX is a fan- Kubota’s powerful KX019- extensive range from Re- mission advanced technology tastic opportunity for us to 4 mini-excavator will make dexim including the Double also features; delivering en- showcase to visitors just how an appearance at the two-day Disc Overseeder 1430 which hanced power, performance was launched at SALTEX and durability. versatile our machinery is for event, prompted by growing last year. This has a working The tractor has been de- use in areas such as sports demand for compact con- width of 1.4m and effectively veloped to suit a wide range stadiums, large estates and struction equipment across delivers the seed accurately of user requirements, ideally public parks.” the groundcare industry. into the soil via discs, spaced 30mm apart, which cut slits in the ground. It drops and buries the seed up to 20mm (3/4”) deep in the ground. Also worth looking at is Redexim Rink DS800 topdresser with a hop- per capacity of 0.8cu.m and a spreading width of 12m. Available trailed or for fit- ting to a utility vehicle. From the Graden portfo- lio, Charterhouse will also be showing the Contour Sand Injection (CSI) unit. The flag- ship Graden machine, the CSI has the ability to scarify to any depth between 1mm- 40mm whilst simultaneously backfilling the grooves with either sand or a combination of sand and seed. In the field of synthetic turf maintenance there are Re- dexim VertiArt products from simple brushing to complex infill removal, cleaning and replacement. Specialists will be on hand to give advice as to the correct machine to choose.

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 23 SALTEX 2015

SALTEX 2015’s new date and venue gets industry approval

The Sports, Amenities, Landscaping panel debates with high-profile surface under a permanently fixed roof Trade Exhibition’s (SALTEX) move industry professionals taking centre - by STRI’s Dr Richard Gibbs. from an outdoor environment into stage. Two further theatres will feature Phil Sharples, currently the director the halls of the NEC Birmingham on dedicated seminars relevant to those of pitches for Gabala FC in Azerbaijan, 4 and 5 November 2015 has been working in the school, play, amenity, will focus on some of the challenges he met with tremendous support from parks, arboriculture and forestry has faced while working overseas. both exhibitors and visitors alike. environments. Bertrand Picard from Natural Grass A packed exhibitor list containing will offer a French perspective on some of the industry’s biggest turfcare, while Ian Craig, regional names along with confirmation of agronomist for STRI, will relay the new exciting features, has ensured bizarre turf management experiences that this year’s exhibition is set to he encountered while working at the be the biggest and best SALTEX to Africa Cup of Nations 2015. date. For young people looking to advance The new, centrally located, national their career in the groundscare exhibition venue and the more industry, a half-day Young convenient time of year has attracted Groundsmen’s Conference, sponsored more than 250 exhibitors representing by Rigby Taylor/Top Green and forestry, play, groundscare machinery, organised by the IOG’s Young Board artificial surfaces, natural turf, Mark Saggers, journalist and radio of Directors, will offer information on landscaping products, pest control, presenter on talkSPORT will host the educational opportunities, a guide line marking, waste management, ‘Gaining Ground’ turf management to what some of the top grounds sports equipment, litter and landfill debates. The former Sky News and managers are looking for in a young and engine fuels. In fact, show BBC sports correspondent is a regular recruit, and a day in the life of the organisers had to extend the show IOG conference and awards host and 2014 Young Sports Turf Student of the footprint by adding an extra hall to visitors to SALTEX 2015 will be pleased Year. accommodate the increased interest. to see him reprising his role. Hosted on the evening of the first Visitors from across the UK and The Gaining Ground theatre will day (4 November), the IOG Industry abroad say that the new venue, and be of particular interest to those with Awards at the Hilton Metropole is set new date are key reasons behind interests in fine turf and a variety of to be the UK’s biggest celebration in their decisions to pre-register for the sports surfaces. Visitors to this theatre groundsmanship; with 19 awards up FREE to attend event. The new look will be able to choose from a range of for grabs, Alistair McGowan providing SALTEX, which also marks the 70th informative seminar sessions presented the after dinner entertainment and anniversary of the show, will feature by some of the industry’s national talkSPORT’s Mark Saggers hosting a comprehensive programme of FREE and international experts including the event. Visit www.iogawards.com to educational seminars and will, for the Mark Pover - national facilities book your place. first time, combine with the Institute manager at the FA, Lee Jackson – head The full programme of SALTEX of Groundsmanship’s (IOG) annual groundsman at Manchester City, Chris events will be regularly updated via Industry Awards dinner. Wood - pitch consultant for the ECB www.iogsaltex.com. Visitor registration Visitors can attend any of the 47 and Simon Winman - head of club to SALTEX 2015 is FREE. To confirm educational seminars on the show development at Rugby Football Union. your attendance visit www.iogsaltex. floor, hosted by partner associations From an international perspective com. Follow SALTEX on Twitter @ and industry experts, within the two- the LEARNING LIVE programme will IOG_SALTEX and Facebook – day LEARNING LIVE programme. The feature an in-depth look at the Forsyth www.facebook.com/IOGSALTEX seminar theatre next to the IOG Hub Barr Stadium in New Zealand - the will feature sports turf management world’s only natural turf playing

24 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd SALTEX 2015

LEARNING LIVE – SALTEX 2015 This year’s SALTEX LEARNING BIGGA Seminars at LIVE education programme will offer SALTEX 2015 grounds and open space practitioners NEC Birmingham across all disciplines, volunteer as well as professional, a daily feast of FREE Thursday 5 November 2015 knowledge-gathering sessions in a Returning for the fourth year, BIGGA will be presenting two seminars at SALTEX 2015. programme that has never been bigger or better! 13.00 – 13.50 Featuring industry-leading experts Improve Turf Quality Through Measuring, Analysing and Effective Planning and some of the top names in European groundsmanship - including All of us are striving to improve the quality participants from some of our flagship of our turf, but how do we develop the stadia and sporting venues - this year’s best turf management plan to really make a difference? Firstly we need to SALTEX presentations will educate, • Technically Turf & New Product enthral and entertain SALTEX visitors understand how the surface is performing Pitches - Stand K180 by measuring specific turf and soil profile like never before. • The Young Groundsmen’s characteristics. Secondly we need to Familiar industry figures will be Conference - Concourse Gallery analyse the measurement data and determine what is good and not so good presenting, including David Snowden Suites 17 & 18 from BIGGA Education Supporter about your turf performance. We can then • The IOG Seminars: Gaining plan effectively by assessing your budgets, Agronomic Services, who are also Ground - 4 November resources and timelines and prioritise the exhibiting at the show. • Hosted by talkSPORT’s Mark most suitable maintenance activities that His seminar, entitled ‘The Saggers will result in better quality turf and the best Importance of Oxygen’, will take place outcome for the players. • The IOG Seminars: Gaining Presented by Steve Gingell, on Wednesday 4 November at 1pm and Ground - 5 November Agronomy Manager, STRI he’s looking forward to seeing BIGGA • Parks Play & People - 4 November 14.05 – 14.55 members and industry colleagues on • Parks Play & People - 5 November Stand A110. Primo Maxx - Learns from the Past, • Technically Turf & New Product Thoughts for the Future! David said: ““We are very excited to Pitches - 4 November be exhibiting at SALTEX for the first • Technically Turf & New Product This seminar will provide an overview of time this year since the change in date Pitches - 5 November Primo Maxx, the sucessful plant growth and location will be more convenient • Young Groundsmen’s Conference regulator and its use in Sportsturf. Daniel and Henry will look at how the for our customers.” (sponsored by Rigby Taylor & Top There are three dedicated seminar product was introduced to the market, Green) - 4 November dicussing the initial turf strategies and how theatres running at the show, plus these have evolved. Using our experience the Young Groundsmen’s Conference Many of the LEARNING LIVE and learns, the seminar will conclude by looking at suggested Primo Maxx organised by the IOG’s Young Board seminars can contribute to an of Directors (and sponsored by Rigby strategies for future use in all aspects of individual’s CPD. All you need to do Sportsturf. Taylor and Top Green). All sessions is reflect on your learning experience Presented by Daniel Lightfoot MG, UK are FREE to attend and do not require at each session and how this may Business Manager TLP, Syngenta and Henry Bechelet, pre-booking - just make sure you impact on your role as a groundsman/ Technical Sales Manager, Turf and Amenity, UK & Ireland, Everris. arrive promptly to make sure you get greenkeeper. This reflection needs to a seat. be recorded in written format and kept These seminars are free of charge for in a personal file for future use. For any visitor to SALTEX. • The IOG Seminars - Gaining more information please go to • BIGGA CPD Credits - 1 CPD credit is Ground - Stand A180 www.iog.org and click on CPD under • Parks Play and People - Stand available for each seminar. Learning/careers. • A CPD code will be available at the A010 end of each seminar.

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 25 Unscrambling cation exchange capacity

Paul Miller follows up his article in August’s GI with a further focus on particle size distribution and unscrambles Cation Exchange Capacity

Sitting down to write this with particle size distribution of the soils fractions, as in terms of nutrient The Open Championship behind that we know can support fine turf, retention and chemical activity this is us I find myself reflecting again on the links sands. Picture 1 shows the where the action is! Typically, when the extraordinary capacity of links upper profile of an immature links soil we add these three columns together sand to drain water, particularly on very near to the beach at Elie in Fife. we find something between 8-11%, the Friday morning (albeit helped The juvenile soil hasn’t yet had time to which might not sound like a lot, but by the outstanding efforts of the accumulate very much humus into the it’s crucial in nutrient retention and greenkeeping team) and within profile, and remains light in colour. chemical activity. hours, to present world-class fine By contrast, picture 2 is also from So lets now get a bit more technical, turf for a major. Elie, this time showing a more mature and discuss Cation Exchange Capacity soil with humus incorporated through (CEC), which is one of those things In my preceding article I discussed the profile giving the dark colouration. everyone has heard of but no-one really the properties of these links sands The dark surface layers (topsoil) and knows what it is – in my experience its in terms of their porosity, facilitating lighter layers beneath (subsoil) will not a number we ever hear used in our water movement, and them draining be familiar to all of you who have industry, but I have a feeling that is to a pore space distribution (air and ever dug a hole, and comes about going to have to change. So what is it water balance) which provides one as a soil matures over time – the all about? facet of the natural habitat for bent surface material undergoes chemical Well, CEC is a property of two grasses and fescues. Taking it a little weathering and accumulates organic soil components, clay minerals and bit further I suggested that links matter which decomposes to form humus, and in order to get a grip sands can be thought of as a model for humus, giving the surface layers a of it as an idea we need to go back rootzones and sands used in modern darker appearance. In soils that don’t to some ‘schoolboy’ chemistry. The greens and tees construction, which have much in the way of fine particles fundamental building blocks of matter mimic the particle size distribution and to begin with i.e. sands (in contrast are atoms, which, when found in their associated properties of the links. to many clay-rich heavier soils) this ‘elemental’ form, are often electrically Having said all of that, we know process is fundamental in converting charged. Those which are positively that the provision of air and water to a a sand (technically a parent material) charged are known as ‘cations’, the plant is only part of the function of any into something which can support negative ones are ‘anions’. soil as a growing medium for plants, plant growth (technically a soil) albeit The way that nature has created in our case fine turf. A functioning one with a pretty low value in terms of the situation leads to many important soil also provides nutrients, buffering agricultural potential. plant nutrients being absorbed from capacity (ability to resist change to pH) Below the humus-rich sand, which the soil as the cation, including and a substrate (i.e. organic matter) is our topsoil in a links environment, to support some of those all important we find unweathered sand. When we soil micro-organisms. In other words take a typical links topsoil and conduct there is a chemical and biological a particle size distribution test we function to soil as a growing medium, get a graph as shown. When we last and in order to understand these we looked at these we concentrated on need to look closely at a part of soil the percentages of fine and medium which is easy to overlook, particularly sand as these set up the physical in the sands that we value so highly as framework for air and water movement, it accounts for only a small percentage but now we need to concentrate on of the solid material in a soil. the last three columns to the right So, let’s start by again looking at the i.e. the very fine sand, silt and clay

26 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd PAUL MILLER

role to play in nutrient retention. To emphasise this, if we do the Soil Particles Surface area maths on it, and we take a soil of Fraction per gram per gram (cm2) 99% medium sand and 1% clay, then the surface area of the particles is Sand 90 – 722,000 11 – 227 distributed 99.75% to the clay. In other Silt 5,776,000 454 words, in terms of cation exchange capacity (nutrient retention) the role Clay 90,250,000,000 8,000,000 played by sand is insignificant. So where does this leave us? Well I am a firm believer that Mother Nature potassium (K+) Magnesium (Mg2+) stable end-product of organic matter has found a solution to a great many Calcium (Ca2+) Aluminium (Al3+) breakdown. It isn’t cellular in form (all?) biological problems; there is a and many of the trace elements. So and it’s not possible to recognise its clear ‘match-up’ in nature where soil from the plant nutrition point of view nature in the way that we can with, for is very sandy but contains up to 10% it would be advantageous if these example, leaf litter or sphagnum moss ‘fines, and the natural presence of fine nutrients could somehow be stored in peat. However, importantly it also turf grasses, and although there is the soil in the available form; that’s possesses a high number of negative variation this is a consistent finding on where our soil ‘fines’ come it – so charges and therefore a high CEC. the old links. lets go back and have a look at those Now we need to ‘join the dots’, In the way that the modern ‘colloidal’ materials - the clay and as it were. The part of the soil with constructed green emulates the humus. the biggest surface area carries a physical properties of a natural sand negative electrical charge; a large it also tries to emulate the nutritional There is an idea that we can apply number of essential nutrients carry properties by allowing for 8–10% to thinking about soil particles, which a positive electrical charge; we all fines; the only problem of this in my might seem a bit random, but please know that opposites attract, so the experience is that we tend to view stay with it, and that is the concept of cations stick to the ‘exchange sites’ these fines as an inconvenience ‘surface area’. and form a ‘reservoir’ of available because of their potential negative In “Sports Fields: Design, nutrient in the soil. The total number impact on porosity and percolation, Construction, and Maintenance” by of negative exchange sites is known and act to minimise them. Picture 4 is Jim Puhalla, Jeff Krans and Michael as the Cation Exchange Capacity; from a modern construction in China, Goatley, there is a table that gives us pure sands have a very low CEC; showing a pure sand devoid of fines. I information on the surface area per humus-rich sands e.g. a links topsoil would argue that the fines content is gram of the individual fractions of soil will score a bit higher thanks to recommended for a reason, and that i.e. the sand, silt and clay - I reproduce the accumulation of humus, and including it brings sufficient nutrient that table as shown above. provide the natural soil environment retention and a degree of chemical What we can see is that the clay for fine turf grasses; agricultural stability to a growing medium. In fraction i.e. the very smallest particles loams will have an optimum CEC for the coming days of further measures have the highest surface area per gram farming, of course balancing nutrient towards sustainable turf management by a long, long way, which is partly a retention against the negative impact I think we could do a lot worse than to result of their small size, and partly the of too much clay on soil porosity. develop a deeper understanding this result of their structure. Breaking rock (The unit of measurement of CEC is fraction of the soil and allow it to work fragments into smaller and smaller ‘milliequivalents per 100g’, which is a naturally for the grass plant. pieces increases surface area per measure of the electrical charge). So why did I say that CEC is a gram, and can form clay particles, but The strength of the ‘sticking’ is number that we’re going to need to surface area is further increased by sufficient to resist leaching by water get to know? My feeling is that future something more subtle than that. passing through the soil, but is not sustainable turf management, where A process known as chemical so strong that nutrients end up we rely less on artificial inputs and weathering produces clay minerals, being unavailable to the plant. To more on ecological principles, has a which have a layered structure, summarise, let’s just say that the principle that we try to grow grass as causing an exponential increase in nutrient retention abilities of a soil are close to its natural habitat as we can, surface area. Think about a Kindle or in direct proportion to the percentage and for me nutrient retention and similar reader packed with e-books of clay and humus, and that in release through CEC is a fundamental – as an object it has a surface area any practical sense it is only these part of that. consisting of the back, front and edges. components that have any significant However, think about the equivalent physical books on a bookshelf; because they are layered structures – both sides of each page – the surface area held within each is huge compared to the Kindle. So, what I am trying to convey is that the small percentage of the smallest particles in a soil has a high surface area, but that’s not quite the end of the story, because, and this is the amazing bit, during their formation the layered, microscopic clay minerals end up being electrically charged, with a negative charge. The second soil component with 1 2 a high CEC is humus, which is a

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 27 Course Conditioning and Training in Fife

Turfmasterone, Laurence Pithie visits the Ladybank Golf Club and discovers a historic course with a contemporary approach to course management

Ladybank Golf Club in north east Regarded as a challenging course, for strengthening wear tolerance on Fife is widely recognised as a very Ladybank demands accuracy and tees. popular and traditional club with course management of the highest The 65 bunkers are revetted in style a long history, and next year it order. Course definition may have with the turf faces sprayed off. Wildlife will host the BIGGA Scottish Golf changed dramatically in the intervening is in abundance with red squirrels Championship. 136 years, but its character remains finding scots pines as an ideal nesting Also, their desire to introduce intact. If you stray off line, expect to habitat. The club emblem features more ‘in-house’ staff training is an be punished! The following extract this creature, which sadly is in sharp innovative step forward. Laurence from the Dundee Evening Post in 1903 decline, but thrives at Ladybank. Other Pithie met up with Head Greenkeeper makes note of this; ‘But woe be unto the fauna include roe deer, foxes, buzzards, David Gray to find out more... Man with the exaggerated slice or pull! bats and various woodpeckers. Old Tom Morris laid out the original He may not again see his ball and the six holes on Ladybank’s existing site only consolation will be that probably in 1879, which was later extended to nobody else will find it!’ nine holes in 1910. It wasn’t until 1958 Ladybank is situated 15 miles west that another nine holes were added and of St Andrews. The course is a mix of since 1961, the layout has remained heathland and woodland and with much the same. Designed in two loops an abundance of heather, scots pine, of nine holes, the course extends to just birch and beech, there is a premium over 6800 yards from the Championship on accuracy. It is blessed with a sandy, tees. loam topsoil overlying a gravel base, Holes are played in every direction providing enviable natural drainage. possible and since 1978 Ladybank has For an inland course to have only two been used as an Open Championship main drains is remarkable. The superb The Team Qualifying venue on seven occasions. and natural greens are predominantly Tasked with managing the site is In 1983, the club hosted an exhibition Colonial Bent, whereas tees, fairways Course Manager Colin Powrie who has match between Nicklaus and and roughs consist mainly of Fescue been at the club for 25 years – he was Ballesteros. with smaller amounts of Bent, Poa promoted to his current role last year. annua and Rye; the latter introduced Head Greenkeeper is David Gray who

28 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd COURSE CONDITIONING & TRAINING IN FIFE

has been at Ladybank for eight years and he too was promoted last year. Five other full time staff include Mike Herd who maintains workshop operations, complementing the maintenance team, all of whom are trained to at least NVQ level 2 and enrolled onto the BIGGA CPD scheme. A management committee consisting of the General Manager, The Professional, Colin and David work together to ensure that the course is managed and maintained in line with the club’s objectives. Colin explained: “We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, precision and careful planning to ensure that anyone playing the course experiences the same quality, regardless of day or time. A key objective is to provide dry and firm playing conditions which are indicative of a heathland environment and to do so within a sustainable environment. We are fortunate to have a full membership with 100% Fescue to improve sward and rough, I was keen to find out more and the luxury of still having a waiting composition, albeit this is a long term about staff training and how this ‘in- list which means that the club are able goal. Disease control is usually limited house’ idea started. to continually invest in the course.” to just one application per annum; David said: “Our aim is to ensure that this being a contact fungicide, since our team have a clear understanding of Conditioning & Presentation our Bent greens have good disease what we are trying to achieve and why. Colin continued: “To help achieve resistance. If team members are asked questions our course objectives, we work closely “We walk mow the collars for they should have the knowledge to with STRI in regards to testing greens added presentation and improved respond with appropriate answers. surfaces for OM, soil moisture, turf firmness while tees, fairways They need to keep up to date with ever firmness, smoothness and pace. and roughs are cut as normal with changing products, techniques and Constant monitoring and recording of varying ride-on mowers. Although the technologies while helping to advance information allows us to communicate main focus of attention is the playing their careers. results to the club while enabling us to surfaces, the next priority is managing “Since benefitting from the BIGGA fine tune our working practices. Greens our environment. This means trimming Delegation sponsored by Bernhards are triplex cut daily at 3.75mm and and removing trees, invasive broom and to the US, attending BTME and rolled frequently to give us a desired other forms of vegetation that inhibit local seminars within the Scottish speed of 9.5 feet which can be tweaked either heather or fescue establishment central section, it encouraged me to upwards for major events. We have a in areas of rough.” become more involved within BIGGA. regular aerifying program using tines Meeting experienced Course Managers of varying depth while applying around Training reinforced my belief in developing 150 tons of sand per annum. Having walked the course and seen training which was supported by Colin. “Nitrogen input is usually around at first hand the turf quality on the “The other key factor was during team 80kgs per annum while a PGR is applied main playing surfaces and previous appraisals; staff responded positively fortnightly and tank mixed with foliar work programmes in areas of heather to the idea and asked to submit topics Nitrogen. We are currently overseeding that would be of benefit. Colin and I put training plans together for two afternoon training sessions which were held in January and April; the first of which was on ‘cutting performance and grinding angles’. “This was largely workshop based and hands on with part of the training being hosted by Mike, who is experienced in this area. The second topic was on bunker sand analysis and this time it was a mix of classroom and sampling various sands which is pertinent to our current work on the course.” Colin added: “After our initial workshop, the club have been fully supportive and are keen for us to continue when opportunities arise. We have a training budget and it is our decision as how best to utilise it. On completion of each workshop, BIGGA are contacted and CPD credits are added, since all staff are enrolled on this scheme and encouraged to achieve

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 29 COURSE CONDITIONING & TRAINING IN FIFE

set targets. the pro’s newsletter which is also posted “Training is very much at the heart within the clubhouse and our canteen. of our business since we have great It’s a great way of communicating networking opportunities within our directly and reviewing past work, industry. With a combination of in future plans and any explanations house training and educational events where necessary, such as the removal locally, it means that everyone within of invasive broom and why we need to our team can keep abreast with latest take such action. trends and technology and then put this “So far the feedback has been into practice on the course so everyone excellent and we are encouraged by can benefit. the club to continue. We have already “Following David’s attendance at a adapted presentations for committees seminar on PGRs at the Golf Industry to give an insight into frost policy and Show, we implemented a change in bunker sand selection’. our programme to switch to 200ml Colin and David have demonstrated every fortnight rather than 400ml per that, with both club and employee month. This had immediate results as support, staff training can be both fun it eliminated the ‘rebound period’ when and informative, while helping in career the chemical runs out and releases the development. It encourages further carbohydrates stored. Our aim is to learning, helps to instil pride into daily run further half or part day workshops work routines and bring about intuitive during the winter. We also hope to thinking. This ensures that the course further develop our relationship with remains at the forefront of modern Elmwood College and have regular visits technologies while maintaining the from students, offer placements and delicate balance between golf and the work experience opportunities since we environment for future generations. The have a great golf course within a diverse fact that the club already have a sand environment’. silo installed to improve top dressing Communication & Feedback efficiency is testament to their forward David added: “I produce a Head thinking. Greenkeeper’s blog sent out via email to all members every fortnight, along with

30 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd Are you ready 12-5-20 for Autumn? tees

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Anthony Darker is First Assistant Greenkeeper at Elsham Golf Club, who won the 2015 Syngenta Operation Pollinator Award supported by STRI and Syngenta for its outstanding ecological work. Here Anthony explains the work the greenkeeping team have put in to transform the site into a thriving wildlife habitat

Britain’s countryside has been act. But, attracting more the course which allows us to shaped and influenced by man wildlife to the course can be do this. It’s obviously trickier if over time but many of the done in a way that doesn’t you don’t have the space, but traditional practices responsible slow play and won’t impede if this is the case maybe look for maintaining it have stopped, the higher handicapped for an out of play tree line on resulting in a loss of important players. So, we decided to cut the side of a tee or a car park wildlife habitats. the rough back to 50mm. border. You could try out a Our rough is a fine wispy wildflower mix as well to bring Elsham Golf Club here in Lincolnshire brown top fescue, perfect for a hint of colour to the course. is a part parkland, part heathland 18 small mammals and insects It’s fair to say that for the hole course. Things have changed over alike to live in. To achieve first 18 months, we didn’t the last three years - we are restoring this wispy finish we sprayed see any revolutionary change, and reconnecting with the environment. Rescue to remove the broad with just some areas of This might sound like a big undertaking leaf grasses, once the Rescue Birds-Foot Trefoil and Red but it doesn’t have to be. had taken effect we then Clover flowering. It could A good start for us was relaxing our scarified to help remove the have been disappointing, rough cutting regimes. This saved us dead grass - in turn fining the but we remained patient and time and money and gave us much- sward. the results over spring and needed refuge for the wildlife on the We are lucky to have quite summer 2013 were certainly course. Obviously it’s a tricky balancing big areas of rough in parts of worth the wait. What were

32 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd ANTHONY DARKER - ECOLOGY IN ACTION

once bland, colourless areas your club and/or the owner involved! became awash with colour and When you start telling them what you crawling with bees, butterflies, are doing you will be surprised by their moths and no end of insects response. Ours have been very positive, that we had never seen prior they all seem keen to help in their own to the Operation Pollinator way. habitats being created. We’ve got some members who are The winter clearly requires keen birdwatchers we’ve discussed a different approach. An easy ideas with, some of their family way to help small mammals members have even come down to have and insects on the course a look at what we’ve been doing, and it’s survive the winter is to make all great for us to increase the profile of log and brash piles. They don’t the greenkeeping team. Some generous have to be huge, just find an members have donated bird feed and out of play area and spread the equipment and materials to help us brash out. Small invertebrates build new animal habitats. can live quite happily in log Ongoing management of the piles but find it hard to move wildflower areas involves waiting until from one to another, so by the end of September for bees and spreading the brash you are butterflies to move away and take refuge creating a corridor for them to in the over winter log piles, then cutting move between. back and removing the vegetation. The Dead wood is not useless, aim is to reduce the fertility and keep it can become a home to the sward open, allowing wildflowers to woodpeckers, tree creepers and set seed and regenerate. The area is cut flying invertebrates, although and baled by a local farmer, but we only you must make sure if you cut down to 15cm and take care to start are leaving dead wood on the in the middle and work outwards, to site that it is done safely. One give small mammals and invertebrates to enhance the environmental attraction option is to remove the top of in the sward a chance to escape. The for both wildlife and golfers. the tree to reduce the chance farmer typically gets 20 bales, and we “The array of practical ideas he of falling debris. keep two or three placed on the edge of has incorporated demonstrated Be inventive - use materials the area to provide a further food source how ecological enhancement can lying around the yard. In my and nesting area for birds. be successfully integrated directly opinion there’s no need to Being involved in this project has alongside management of the golf course buy hedgehog homes or insect been incredibly exciting for me, and to provide great playing conditions. hotels. If you have a pile of has generated a wave of enthusiasm “Elsham, like all of the clubs involved bricks or slabs make a box- within the greenkeeping team and the with Operation Pollinator, is proof like shape, cover it in soil, add club to do more. If we all try and do that golf courses and the skills of the some dry bedding material and our bit, whether it’s on a small or large greenkeeping teams can provide a you have a hedgehog home. scale, we can help dispel the negative superb ecological resource. Far from We all have pallets left publicity golf clubs sometimes receive being the ecological deserts that some behind from deliveries - keep regarding the environment. would like to portray, they are an them and make insect hotels. Caroline Carroll, Syngenta Operation environmental oasis to enjoy and for Also, something new I tried Pollinator Manager, commended which the industry should be justifiably this year was a bee hotel made Anthony on his passionate enthusiasm proud.” out of breeze blocks and an old that has made such a success of If you would like advice on how to hosepipe dug into south facing the environmental work at Elsham incorporate some of these ideas on tee banks filled with wood Golf Club. She said: “He has ably your course, or have some ideas of chip. demonstrated how the Operation your own, please contact Anthony Try and get the members at Pollinator initiative has made it possible on [email protected]

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 33 A heathland evolution

Jonathan Knowles visits Oakmere Park Golf Club in Nottinghamshire to see how a team of BIGGA members are implementing various course developments including re-establishing heathland.

Nottingham Castle is perched on But there is no complacency here, an impressive lump of Sherwood as course development and long- sandstone with caves, dwellings, term conservation initiatives are hideouts and even a medieval transforming this captivating boozer – ‘Ye Old Trip to Jerusalem’. environment for golf. No doubt many local icons from DH Lawrence to The Sherriff of The greenkeeping team is a blend Nottingham have supped a few ales of experience and apprentices. All in there. This substrate forms not nine have varied responsibilities to just the city’s heritage, but also maintain the estate. Course Manager the landscape in the north and Richard Bond started his career in the west of the shire. Rolling valleys, mid nineties. His first challenge was ancient woodlands, pine forest to establish a new 45-hole venue at plantations, arable farmland, heath East Horton near Winchester, as well and reclaimed mining areas are as completing a HND in Golf Course synonymous with the county. The Management. After eight years at East (December) and evenly spread, overlying soils have largely arisen Horton he relocated to the Midlands preferably with fine grasses and birch from friable sandstones forming for a new challenge to raise the status branches to help nurse germination Bunter soils (sandy soil with pebbles of Oakmere as a venue for national and create a micro-climate for and cobbles). These free draining tournaments. Now, after eleven years establishment. It can take years for soils provide dry, lowland heaths at Oakmere, a heathland initiative and heather to establish, some areas have and are characteristic of a number course developments are bearing fruit. taken up to four years.” of golf courses in the county. Oakmere has made great strides in diversifying its heathland credentials, The locally sourced brash has been Ten miles north of the castle is a as well as playing quality. Richard supplied by neighbouring heathland popular 27-hole facility: Oakmere told me how the team has managed to course Sherwood Forest. Richard Park covers 160 ha with a texture establish the heath over the years. added: “Head Greenkeeper Kim of woodland, bracken, gorse, wispy “The process of establishment has Kirkham has been invaluable as a grasses and heather. The well- involved scraping off topsoil to remove source of brash and advice”. This established facility attracts many the inherent nitrates. The exposed initiative has been transformational. locals and far-flung visitors with a sandy profile is ideal for heather. driving range and new FootGolf course “Once excavated to the sandy The original site of the 1980s has to boot. It is surely a contender as substrate, locally sourced heather evolved from pine forest plantation one of the region’s busiest venues. brashing is harvested after seeding with open agricultural land, into a

34 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd OAKMERE PARK GOLF CLUB

diverse natural heathland course. It is rooting depth date back to 2004. We Earthworks started early in the year an absolute credit to the vision of the all evaluate how these are working and with alterations to topography and team and management at this Notts use experience of the team to sort out re-bunkering of the 11th green. There haven of heathland. problems and improve techniques too. was no major upheaval as such, the The general philosophy is little and work was meticulously carried out A diverse and beautiful heathland often with almost all tasks on the golf with minimum disruption. Changes ecology is only part of the story. This course whether irrigation, top dressing, have resulted in a well-defined new environmentally sympathetic approach fertilising or aeration”. style. Admittedly, naturalistic links has transcended into turf management style bunkers are unusual in this part with tangible benefits, such as reduced There are also examples of the team of the Midlands, but here they seem disease incidence and fungicide having to solve problems such as entirely fitting. The surrounding swales applications year on year. insect pests. While the sandy site is and borrows of the green enhanced the ideal for maintaining a dry golf course, approach shot into the green. The greens are routinely dry and it is also an ideal habitat for chafer firm. Recent data has revealed grubs. At Oakmere Park it is the Work continued into the spring, the composition as 43% annual juvenile Garden Chafer (Phyllopertha altering a number of fairway bunkers meadowgrass and 51% bentgrass, horticola) that can cause problems and two greens and tee complexes the remainder being fescue and on the fairways and approaches. It on the nine hole Commander’s Yorkshire fog. Stimpmeter readings has proved a major pest that has course. The whole design concept are consistently fast with an effective needed an integrated approach. With and execution of the development is cutting height of 5mm combined with questions over the future of the refreshing. For the greenkeeping team spells of rolling. To increase the pre- insecticide imidacloprid, Richard and it has been an opportunity to initiate dominance of Browntop bent, a regime the team have had to source new and develop new practices. The edging of overseeding in spring and autumn control methods. Currently they are of the naturalistic bunkers has been following a verticut and topdress with trialling pheromone traps, and early described as ‘3D turfing’ by the team. cultivars Egmont, Greenspeed and indications i.e. the lured number of Blocks of turf cut from the rough and Manor have been applied at 6g/m2. adult beetles, are good. placed on the bunker edge, greenside facing in the bunker and the upper Richard pointed out that firmness Ambitious planning and teamwork side seeded to form the edge. This is likely to be attributed to a change has extended beyond the greenkeeping method instantly resulted in appealing in coarser top-dressing material and team. The management have recently naturally formed bunkers, important regular aeration to increase water initiated a major enhancement project in showcasing to the members how the infiltration. This also reduces iron for the whole site. After consultation new design will evolve. build-up in the rootzone. A regime with architect Tom MacKenzie of of vertidraining with no more than MacKenzie & Ebert, a detailed Greens construction also needed an 4% iron and seaweed treatments are catalogue of proposals was drawn innovative method to rapidly establish supplemented with Breaker BioLinks up. The MacKenzie style fits perfectly the grass. Recycled cores from 14mm fortified with plant growth hormones. with the transforming heathland of Richard has worked closely with a Oakmere Park. number of agronomists, gleaning their knowledge to enhance the courses.

Particular guidance from Brian Robinson has led to a programme of Rigby Taylor treatments and fertilisers - Microlite Activ8 with ERD and XL bio- stimulants “the greens respond well to these products, especially applied as light applications”. This diligent programme of nutrient treatments, aeration and sand dressings has seen reduced pathogen activity and increased root zone porosity. These are proven factors in maintaining playability, agronomy and importantly golfer satisfaction. A real true example of how sound greenkeeping can contribute successfully to the running of the facility. This is reflected in the sizeable 800 membership and 60k rounds per year.

Richard pointed out planning and whole team involvement is a key aspect in preparation. “I spend a lot of time working on the courses with different members of our team. I keep notes on all settings, application rates and heights of cut. We then work together to compare and contrast previous years’ results. For example, the logs on irrigation audits, soil analysis and

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 35 OAKMERE PARK GOLF CLUB

diameter hollow tines were taken Isn’t good course management 90% the Greentek Maxi Brush from the greens of the Admiral’s main same for all Course Managers/Head Port Agric Cutlass Rough Roller course, then spread and consolidated Greenkeepers? Agronomy and course Mower (3 m) Deck on the new greens, followed up by presentation have fundamentals that Major Flail/Scarify bentgrass overseeding as per the main we all adhere to, but it’s what happens Hunter Grinder greens. Richard praised the guidance in the remaining ‘special’ 10% that Utility Vehicles - RECO, John Deere received from Ian Kinley, Course makes the difference. Oakmere has CX, John Deere ProGator 2020 Manager at Royal Porthcawl. now been selected as county course and Electric Buggies x2 for 2020, confirming progress is “I received invaluable information how clearly working towards that objective to do this. Without Ian’s step-by-step of a tournament venue. The vision is photos, I would have struggled to get becoming tangible via a good range of the finish we have now”. This method sustainable practices. has led to an outstanding result and close to playing conditions within a MACHINERY LIST few months. Essentially, the mature grasses have hastened establishment TORO GM 3250 x2 for play. These developments will also TORO Rollers see replacement of the 1980s irrigation TORO Sidewinder system with the TORO Lynx, complete TORO 5500 with infinity sprinklers and weather TORO 6500 station. Shrewd turf management and TORO Sandpro greenkeeping are raising the standards TORO Pro Core SR54S with cost-effective investment. TORO Z-Turn x2 John Deere 2500 ABOUT THE AUTHOR These are excellent examples of how John Deere Topdresser sustainable turf management can John Deere 220A x2 Jonathan Knowles has been in ultimately benefit the club, members Jacobsen TR3 greenkeeping for around 25 years. and future of the business. Jacobsen AR3 Having completed a decade in Nottingham Forest icon Brian Clough Kubota tractor 3300 greenkeeping at Rufford Park GC, he once remarked that management is Kubota tractor 4200 x2 moved to a role delivering sports turf 90% the same for all football managers Groundsman 12180TM education and more recently turfgrass up and down the country, but it’s that Gambetti 450L Boom Sprayer research. Following a number special 10% that makes the difference. (fully shrouded) agronomy articles for GI this is his first Greentek Verti-cutting Units course report.

36 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd Another result for Ringer

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1. Another result for Ringer FINAL.indd 1 03/02/2015 13:50 Game of Thornes Steve Thorne, Student greenkeeper of the year 2015

38 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd TORO STUDENT GREENKEEPER OF THE YEAR 2015

Steve Thorne was crowned the 2015 six month adventure around Canada, Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year USA, Australia and New Zealand. Steve at BIGGA House after a keenly contest- recalls “These were great times. Seeing ed Final. Steve, who is Deputy Course and experiencing new people and plac- Manager at Rushmore Golf Club near es. But it also gave me time to think Salisbury was nominated by Nick Lush and reflect upon what made me happy. of Myerscough College and came out on I knew things had to change when we top after a gruelling 24 hours packed got home.” with discussions, exams, presentations, So on their return, Steve started work interviews and birthday cake! A relative latecomer to greenkeeping, on the farm where he grew up. Working Steve - who celebrated his 43rd birthday alongside his father on the mixed ara- during the Final itself – has had an un- ble and dairy estate. “I really enjoyed usual career journey. Here, in his own work on the farm. I was working with words, he describes how a round the globe machinery and was outside, all of which trip led him into the world of greenkeeping made me happy. However the compro- mise was that the hours were incredibly long and the work/life balance was too About the Winner uneven! I knew once again, it was time for a change”. Steve grew up on a farm in rural Dor- Steve heard of a position coming set, with his Dad, Mum and younger up at Salisbury and South Wilts Golf sister. He enjoyed the outdoor life and Club and joined the team as Assistant helped out on the farm in school hol- Greenkeeper. “At Salisbury, I worked idays during busy times. During his under Course Manager Darren Lee and school days, he felt like he was steered his Deputy Jon Oostendorp, who were towards an academic career, and, af- both inspiring characters. Darren for ter completing GCSE’s and A-Levels he his attention to detail and emphasis on went onto college to complete an HND presentation and Jon for his technical in Building Studies. Once he had grad- knowledge and ability.” It was while uated from college, he initially worked here at Salisbury that Steve completed as a junior Quantity Surveyor for a his level 2 qualification. national housebuilder and from there, While working here, Steve was doing onto a Building Supplies chain where some private lawn care work in the af- he was eventually promoted to the po- ternoons and evenings which soon be- sition of General Manager for the South came something far bigger. “The private West region of the company. Steve says work snowballed into something signif- “Although these roles were interesting, I icant in a really short amount of time. I never really felt happy or fulfilled. It just felt like I had to explore its potential. So seemed like the right thing to do.” I left Salisbury and South Wilts and set Things changed when Steve’s wife’s up my own business.” father died unexpectedly at a young “Two Men Went to Mow”, his lawn age. “This event was obviously a great care business, kept Steve busy for six shock to Rachael and I and the whole years where he acquired valuable skills family. But time is a great healer, and such as managing his own time, meet- after coming to terms with the loss, Ra- ing customers and managing their ex- chael expressed an interest in getting pectations. “The business was a great away and seeing some of the world.” So, experience, but after working for so long almost 18 months later, Steve resigned predominately on my own, I yearned to from his job and the pair set off on a be part of a team again and wanted to

BIGGA Chairman, Les Howkins MG presents Steve Thorne with the coveted TORO student greenkeeper of the year award 2015

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 39 TORO STEDENT GREENKEEPER OF THE YEAR

tigious Winter Turf School in Massa- chusetts will be amazing. I can’t wait to see the TORO HQ, and understand more about the place where the ma- chines we use almost everyday come from. And also, to experience the Golf Industry Show first hand will be fantas- tic, I’ve heard so much about it.” “I’d like to thank Rushmore Course Manager Jaime Acton, the General Manager Declan Healy and the whole team for their fantastic support, Nick Lush, my tutor at Myerscough College for nominating me, my wife Rachael for her constant encouragement and BIGGA’s South West & South Wales Regional Administrator Tracey Walker for setting up the public speaking and presentation course at Hockley Golf Club I attended recently which was a great confidence booster heading into the final. Special thanks to the spon- get back to greenkeeping and make a cently and are currently increasing the sors Toro and everyone at BIGGA House career of it.” amount of educational events on offer for making me so welcome.” Steve’s local golf club, Rushmore, to compliment the well-established cal- had three, long serving, members of endar of golf fixtures. Steve commented, staff retiring in the same six month pe- “I really support what the Section are riod. “With such a change, I suspected trying to achieve at the moment. By of- that there were exciting times ahead at fering a wider range of events we can Rushmore, and was lucky enough to appeal to a wider range of members. join the team in August 2012.” The more people become involved, the Since then the Club and the green- more they can see the benefits of educa- keeping team have built upon the good tional events and the networking poten- work of their predecessors and forged tial on offer. This can only be a positive ahead with improving the course. Steve thing and help to promote professional- says “Having Jaime (Acton) as Course ism within our already great industry”. Manager has been great, we’ve really At home, Steve has been busy reno- gone from strength to strength. As a vating his home in Cranborne, Dorset. team, we’ve been encouraged to learn, He recalls “we had just completed a big with two of us, including myself, under- renovation on our last house when we taking our level 3 qualification through sold it to move here. I thought our new Myerscough College. Jaime also en- home was just in need of a little dec- courages the team to attend BIGGA ed- orating, but somehow we’ve ended up ucational and networking events. These taking down walls, re-plumbing, re-wir- events are a great opportunity to meet ing and re-plastering most of it! I feel as other greenkeepers and discuss work if I’ve done enough DIY for a while!” He related issues. It’s always interesting has recently started learning to play the to hear that similar experiences and drums and has bought an electric drum problems are encountered by many golf kit which is set up in the office at home. clubs, regardless of their size or repu- “I’m no Dave Grohl, but it’s something tation.” I’ve always wanted to do. Being electric, In January 2014, Steve was promoted and using headphones, there is hardly to the position of Deputy Course Manag- any sound made when playing it, which er at Rushmore. “This has been a great I’m sure the neighbours appreciate!” opportunity to assist Jaime and hope- On winning the TORO Student Green- fully alleviate him of some of the day keeper of the Year award, Steve com- to day tasks of Course Manager”. Ste- mented “This has been a great expe- ve has also enjoyed the winter projects rience from start to finish. It’s a real that the team have completed over the honour to have won, especially when last two years. “We’ve completed sever- you’re up against such knowledgeable al good projects over the last couple of and passionate people. I was so proud winters, with some new tees and sev- to have got to the final six, an achieve- eral new pathways being built around ment in itself, but being crowned the the course. I really enjoy the variety of winner is still sinking in. It was great jobs you get to do as a Greenkeeper, it’s to get to know the other finalists over what makes it such a great career!” the couple of days, I’m sure we’ll keep in Since February of this year, Steve has touch. And all the staff at BIGGA House been serving on the South Coast Sec- made us feel so welcome. Deb (Burnett) tion committee as Secretary, and also had even baked me a birthday cake on pens the notes for the Around the Green the day we arrived, a really nice touch!” section of GI Magazine. The committee Steve added “I’m so excited about has been through some changes re- America. To go and be part of the pres-

40 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd TORO STUDENT GREENKEEPER OF THE YEAR 2015

THE 2015 FINAL

Winner: Steve Thorne, Rushmore Golf Club (Myerscough College) Runners up: Susan Reeve, Castle Royle Golf Club (Oaklands College), Sam Sweetzer, West Hill Golf Club (My- erscough College). Finalists: Stefan Carter, The Went- worth Club (Myerscough College), Jon- Jo Pitts, Royston Golf Club (Oaklands College), David Stewart, Walmley Golf Club (Pershore – Warwickshire College). The final consists of a series of tasks beginning with a debate and discussion panel. This is followed by a multiple choice technical test, an essay ques- tion requiring a response of 500 – 750 words, a 5-10 minute formal presenta- tion and an in-depth interview. BIGGA Chairman Les Howkins MG, Course Manager at The Richmond Golf Club, chaired the discussion panel. The candidates were asked first of all to take sides in debates on grass species and chemical or biological inputs and then to give their own views on further hot topics in the industry. Following the multiple choice and es- say tests the final stage of the compe- tition featured the students delivering a short presentation about themselves before they were interviewed by Sami Strutt, BIGGA Head of Member Devel- opment, golf course consultant Bruce Jamieson, BIGGA Chairman Chris Sea- ley and Jeff Anguige, Lely Turf Division Sales Manager.

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 41 The Prince...

BIGGA member Jordan Fairweather has had an extremely varied career taking him from Scotland to Bahrain via America and Bulgaria.

He is now Director of Agronomy for Troon Golf at The Royal Golf Club in Bahrain. Here he explains the many challenges present ranging from ...of Persia scorching temperatures to managing a course on an oil field.

Managing turf is a small portion of browns rather than greens! round mower usage, topdressing what the modern day turf manager Like all golf courses on islands it and fertiliser applications resulting undertakes. Project management, takes a lot of work due to changing in higher machinery hours and procurement, customs clearance environmental conditions and the increased operational costs. Workshop and product registration, health and ordering and importation of materials. management and staff holidays are safety, multiple human resource We are open for play 365 days a year two areas which require very well tasks, communication with members with Sea Isle Supreme paspalum in planned coordination to ensure that along with bench marking/data the summer months and overseeding overseeding, the spring transition back capture, budgeting, reporting, in the cooler months, greens with Poa to Paspalum and summer renovation environment and ecology and even Trivialis and Perennial Ryegrass on all dates are all covered with renovation in some cases sales, marketing and other surfaces. Approximately 45,000 being an extensive programme on social media are all areas which rounds are played annually. warm season turf. require daily involvement. But we’re all working towards the end goal Although only a one-hour flight As with most greenkeepers, the of customer satisfaction through from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, our weather is the main concern with agronomic excellence. Here, this temperatures are generally around 5C the wind, fluctuating humidity and has to be achieved on an island cooler than the UAE. This, coupled the occasional rain shower from with daily average temperatures in with high winds coming from Iran November–February testing us, but summer of 48C. and the Arabian Gulf tend to put the main concern is scorching summer the Paspalum completely dormant temperatures of up to 50C. Bahrain is an island in the Arabian for around four to eight weeks in Gulf which is 55% desert. The Royal January/February with its growth Wind actually increases our daily Golf Club, managed by Troon Golf, is completely slowing in late November watering more than the high 40’s Bahrain’s largest piece of green space. until late April. temperatures due to the warm season It was redesigned by European Golf Paspalum coping with the heat. Wind Design in 2008 to make way for a new In Dubai and Abu Dhabi they may speeds of over 30kmh are common housing development and is still the only overseed for aesthetics or in and on occasions get up to 75kmh so only green golf course open for play roughs where they require a higher night shifts are undertaken to spray in the country. Bahrain has two other height of cut for tour events, but we fertilisers or pesticides. Cover booms nine hole grassed courses which are overseed wall to wall. The dormancy and air induction nozzles are used but for private use by the Royal Family. with the drying winds would make at times this is not enough. There are two other nine hole golf greens unplayable if not overseeded. courses which are sand courses with Overseeding means we have year To give an example of the heat the

42 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd COURSE MANAGEMENT IN BAHRAIN

mechanics wear wool gloves in summer to stop their hands being burnt on metal tools. The wind also gives us work through washing turf and salt burn. The desert here has a very high salt content due to Bahrain being an island and winds blow natural desert sand all over the course which requires washing of turf and flushing of the sodium build up.

Salt is also a concern coming from our water source. Our water source is from four wells on site. This water is then put through our own Reverse Osmosis plant. We have a team of six operating the plant all year round. Daily we apply around 2.5 million litres of water.

Bahrain gets on average ten days of rain a year totalling 70mm. Being an island, topdressing sand is not available so we import silica sand for greens but all other surfaces are top dressed with double washed marine sand. All of the above means we have to have a flushing program. After each aerification we apply Calcium Sulphate (gypsum) at 500kg ha in the holes as a long term solution to help cation exchange capacity and reduce sodium build up, but monthly we apply Calcium Chloride, Wetting Agent and Seaweed in a solution which we then flush through the profile.

The salt content in the natural sub grade (the course is capped with 400mm of double wash marine sand) along with the salt content in the water corrodes the irrigation system. We are currently replacing all backing rings on valves that were steel with HDPE and all metal ball valves with PVC. Remember the course is only seven years old so this clearly shows the extreme corrosion in a short space of time. A team of five irrigation technicians keep the system operational including taking moisture readings from greens and fairways daily with a spectrum TD300 moisture meter.

All materials must be imported to Bahrain. We have to register all products with the Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Environment. This registration lasts two years and we must get an import permit for every delivery. In practice, this means when you register a product you will more than likely stick with that supplier for two years and cannot just order ten bags of something when you run short!

Approximately 15% of our operational budget is on customs and delivery costs. To try and combat this we have an agreement with our Toro distributor to hold stock so all significant items

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 43 COURSE MANAGEMENT IN BAHRAIN

are stocked by us - but not charged during the Paspalum growing season to us until we use them. This way we and we try to needle tine with 5mm slid replace all items at the end of each tines every month to all surfaces from month in one delivery. PLC control October to March. Rolling of greens parts, spare pumps and motors must is undertaken three times per week. all be kept in stock for the Reverse The greens profile records volumetric Osmosis plant and irrigation system as moisture content of around 24%. water out here is more valuable than petrol and is five times the price. Petrol Managing of the Paspalum turf is our price is currently 100 fills (17p) per main focus and even when the winter litre and water 500 fills (85p). grass is dominating we are thinking about the base grass. Weekly foliar Running a golf course in the middle fertilising and Primo Maxx applications of an active oil field also means very are made every fortnight at 300ml per strict regulations to be followed. Simple ha on all areas with granulars only things such as not working within being used directly after overseed or five metres of an oil pipe (all pipes renovation with a granular potassium run above ground for easy access, to always applied after aerification. reduce erosion and ensure if a leak Paspalum is an abundant user of no material gets into the pipes) even calcium and sees great benefits from though our irrigation lines cross under zinc and magnesium towards reducing them. Also no burning waste material stress. or starting fires, no storage of carbon waste and separate store rooms for Only one fungicide application Nitrate fertilisers. was applied in 2014 but monthly applications of a biological fungicide We have 12 oil wells on site and three called companion are applied to gas dehydration plants surrounding greens. We have seen great results with the property. Daily, we meet with this product which has allowed us to the oil companies to sign off access near eliminate fungicide use. permits for maintenance work to their systems. Often they will request 24 We have 27 holes of which 18 are hour access to bring in work over rigs floodlit, the first tee time is 6.30am to re-drill or clean wells which are and the last 9.30pm. Having floodlights rather large pieces of equipment! We has pros and cons. We see increased have very limited ability to say no to wear and increased insect activity but work over rigs and for those of you who on the plus side do all our solid tine manage tour events with contractors it aerification and some major projects is similar. throughout the night. We have a team of 51 including three mechanics. Annual turf renovation consists of Arabic, Hindi and English are all five main events: spoken.

April Troon Golf took over management of Four way verti cutting (we always verti- The Royal Golf Club in late 2012. A cut up and back on the same stripe year later the club were awarded Troon to eliminate grain) at minus 3mm Golf’s Facility of the Year. Out of over and 8mm hollow coring to promote 200 courses around the world this was transition back to Paspalum a great achievement by the team. When working in a tough culture with tough June environmental conditions it is greatly Four way verti cutting at minus 1mm satisfying to receive such awards. and 8mm hollow coring The biggest thing I have personally July learnt from my experience here is that Graden scarification to 18mm deep you have to surround yourself with with 10mm deep tine aerification the right people, adapt to change and realise that there is no single method August in the turf industry that is right. Four way verti cut at minus 1mm then 16mm hollow coring Break down the bigger departments into small areas and get the right October people so you can train them and Four way verti cut at minus 3mm to share. Even with larger budgets and prepare a seed bed followed by 8mm larger manpower than most European solid tine aeration before we overseed. courses it does not mean the challenge Follow The Royal Golf Club is any less. When the smallest step Maintenance Department on Seed rates are 450kg ha on fairways/ forward and smallest achievement is Facebook at roughs and 400kg of poa trivialis on made it is greatly rewarding and makes The Royal Golf Club-Agronomy greens. Regular verti-cutting at minus you look for that next step, challenge or on Twitter 1mm and topdressing is carried out or enhancement you can give the @RGCAgronomy to greens approximately every 14 days members.

44 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd COURSE MANAGEMENT IN BAHRAIN

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jordan originates from Scotland and spent seven years at Loch Lomond Golf Club. He graduated in Golf Course Management and Agronomy from Rutgers University in the USA.

After working at the 2007 US Open at Oakmont Country Club and 2008 Ryder Cup at Valhalla Golf Club he then moved to the Middle East as Construction Superintendent, building the world acclaimed Yas Links along with Dubai Golf City. He then moved on to Bulgaria where he finalised the construction and opening of Pravets Golf Club which then hosted two EPGA European Championships.

For three years he has been Director of Agronomy for Troon Golf at The Royal Golf Club in Bahrain responsible for not only their 27 hole golf course but an external landscape contracting company and cart fleet sales and service company.

Jordan Fairweather

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 45 Light fantastic

Congratulations to Darren Chisholm, Greenkeeper at Castle Stuart Golf Links, who has won the BIGGA Photographic Competition 2015 with the fabulous shot of the Northern Lights over the club’s iconic clubhouse.

Keen amateur photographer Darren took the winning image at around 11pm on a clear night in February – with a little help from his car headlights! His shot attracted the most votes from BIGGA members, with the next 11 being included in next year’s BIGGA Calendar. He explained: “I usually try and take pictures of the Northern Lights about half a mile away from the golf course, but on that particular night I thought I’d have a go at taking one with the Lights and the clubhouse in too. “I wasn’t sure how it had 2nd: James Bledge - Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club worked out and I never expected to win, but I’m very happy people liked it. I’m shortly heading off to work at a club in Australia for six months which will be great experience, and the iPad should keep me occupied on the long flight!” Darren used his Nikon DC100 camera with a 15 second exposure. He used an ISO setting (which controls the sensitivity of the shot) of 500 with a specification of F5. Thank you to everyone who entered, and also thank you to all the members who took the time to vote - we received over 500 votes this year. 3rd: Leigh Powell - Hockley Golf Club

46 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd PHOTO COMPETITION

4th: Chris Brown - Gleneagles 8th: Graeme Roberts - Camberley Heath Golf Club

5th: Ross Jones - Billingbear Park Golf Course 9th: Grant Stewart - Sunningdale Golf Club

6th: Ian Chenery - Woodbury Park Golf Club 10th: Ian Brodie - Duddingston Golf Club

7th: Noel Smith - Burnham & Berrow Golf Club 11th: John Parry - Wrexham Golf Club

12th: Ryun Holden - Golf Club Wylihof

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 47 Species management

As part of his Turfgrass Man- Over 50% were dissatisfied The problems occur when agement Studies at Askham with the quality of the rough, rough grassland becomes in- Bryan College, Ben Morgan, and 70% stated that improving fested with coarse grasses Assistant Greenkeeper at the playability of these areas such as Ryegrass (Lolium) and Sandburn Hall Golf Club in was one of their main priori- Yorkshire Fog (Holcus Lana- York, has looked at species ties. (Sanderson, 2012) tus). They form a thick im- management of rough grass- penetrable layer that makes it land on golf courses. Here he Well-managed rough grass- virtually impossible to find the explains his findings... land can challenge the golfers ball or play a shot. If we de- A typical golf course in the to play the course strategical- velop a programme to remove UK comprises, on average, of ly and provide the opportuni- these undesirable grasses and about 60% rough grassland. ty to find their golf ball and encourage finer leaved grasses This means these areas can play a good recovery shot. By such as Fescue (Festuca) and have a potentially serious im- maintaining the rough to this Bent (Agrostis) instead - they pact on a golfers score during standard we can keep the will perform to a much better a round. (Witteveen & Bavier, speed of golf at a reasonable standard. 2005) pace and improve the golfers’ A golf player survey con- experience. They will be pro- Rough Grassland Manage- ducted by Syngenta revealed vided with the opportunity to ment Programme that thick unplayable rough make mistakes but also enjoy To improve these areas we containing coarse grasses was the challenge of being able to must develop the appropriate a main grievance for golfers. play recovery shots. management strategy using

48 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd SPECIES MANAGEMENT

ed by coarse grasses we have travels through the grass plant the option to apply a selective systemically from the leaves herbicide and remove the un- down to the plants roots. The desirable grasses to encourage active ingredient in this prod- fine-leaved grasses. uct ‘Pinoxaden’ targets specific So, how do we control broad- enzymes in the plant and stops leaved grasses? cell division leading to death. The effects of Rescue can be Rescue Selective Herbicide seen on Ryegrass (Lolium) 10 One of the most efficient days after application and af- herbicides available to tackle ter three to four weeks you can coarse grasses is Rescue - pro- expect full foliar dieback. duced by Syngenta. This prod- The reason grasses like Fes- uct is designed to kill broad- cue (Festuca) aren’t affect- leaved grasses so finer leaved ed by rescue is their fine leaf grasses can be established. structure does not allow the The effects of this chemical are chemical to adhere to them, transient so you do not observe therefore they are not affected. a sudden death of the grass Some fine grasses such as co- and receive adverse reactions lonial and brown top bent can from the golfers. The advan- show signs of discolouration tage of this product is that you but showed fast recovery dur- can allow the rough grassland ing trials. to remain long but keep the visual definition on the course PGR Application and - without slowing down play or Over-seeding upsetting golfers with constant Trials conducted by STRI lost golf balls. proved that an application of the plant growth regulator Successful Trials Using Res- (PGR) Primo MAXX five days cue before over-seeding increases The Course Manager of Loch the success of seed establish- Lomond Golf Club, David Cole ment by up to 200%. The prod- MG, found success using Res- uct will suppress competition cue to thin out his rough. He from other dominant species explained that the following in the sward and allow fine programme helped him to grass species to establish suc- improve the rough at his golf cessfully. (Sanderson, 2009) course: If you are planning to over- • Application of Rescue seed after the application of • Iron (Fe) Rescue there is a technique • Fertilizer (NPK) designed to help determine • (PGR) Primo Maxx the correct time to apply the • Over seeding with fine seed. Three to four weeks af- grasses ter the application you should • Installing drainage perform ‘The Rescue rub test’. He stated: “We are getting This technique involves plac- back to rough areas that can ing a few strands of the af- be used to define the design of fected grass blades into the the course, without impinging palm of your hand and start on the players’ game too se- rubbing them together using the correct technique to en- verely. It all looks better and is your fingers. If the leaves are courage a better playability playing better.” desecrated and crumble then standard. The evidence suggests that the timing is perfect to start during trials Rescue proved it- over seeding – preferably with Grassland Survey self to be a very efficient tool a Fescue (Festuca) mix. To determine the quality for selectively removing coarse of the rough we must survey grasses from the sward. Re- Summary the grassland in question to moving these grasses can en- The evidence suggests that identify the percentages of un- courage fine leaved grasses in order to keep rough grass- desirable grasses and gauge establishment and improve land to a satisfactory playing whether alteration is required. playability. quality we must manage it us- Having the ability to accurate- ing the appropriate technique. ly identify turf grasses at this How Does Rescue Work? If we do not manage these ar- stage becomes very important During treatment coarse eas efficiently we can expect because we need to determine grasses in the sward absorb to get infestations of coarse if the coarse grass species are greater amounts of the prod- grasses that make it impossi- dominant and if the modifica- uct than fine leaved grass- ble to play shots from. There tion programme is required. es because their leaves have are a number of different op- (Arthur, 2003) a larger surface area for the tions open to the turf grass chemical to adhere to. Once manager to improve these ar- If fine-leaved grasses ex- Rescue has been absorbed it eas including: ist but are being outcompet-

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 49 SPECIES MANAGEMENT

• Mechanical scarification the competing grasses and will • Selective herbicide control give the slow growing Fescue Rescue station • PGR application (Festuca) a chance to get es- untreated rough • Over seeding with Fescue tablished. (Festuca) If you watched The Open at Sanderson (2014) describes St Andrews and feel inspired to how trials carried out at Bow- emulate the fine-leaved Fescue ood Golf & Country Club rough, you might consider de- proved that using a singular veloping a grassland manage- autumn application of Rescue ment programme at your golf achieved a result just as suc- course this autumn. cessful as combining mechan- ical scarification and Rescue application together. There- fore, it makes good economic sense to use Rescue on its own if your only objective is to thin the sward by removing broad- ABOUT THE AUTHOR leaved grasses. Ben previously complet- Rescue station treated However, if your objective is ed his Level 2 in Sportsturf coarse die back to encourage wild flowers as and Amenity while working at well as thin out the sward then Whitby Golf Club. scarification should be includ- He then joined the Ohio ed as part of your programme, State University programme at because trials have shown that Pinehurst Golf Resort, and had the removal of accumulated a spell on the Old Course at St thatch by mechanical scarifi- Andrews. cation can increase wild flower He then attended Askham recovery rates. Bryan College, graduating in To encourage fine leaved 2011. He studied a foundation grasses such as Fescue (Fes- degree in Sports Surface Man- tuca), an application of a PGR agement then a BSc in Sus- helps to slow down growth of tainable Land Management.

Long-lasting Medallion TL Medallion TL gives you the confidence and peace of mind that your turf is safely protected. Bio-inspired The fludioxonil in Medallion TL is the ONLY Contact+ active – targeting disease on the leaf explosive AND in the thatch.

Visit www.greencast.co.uk performance for more information

Syngenta UK Ltd. Registered in England No. 849037. CPC4, Capital Park, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5XE E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.greencast.co.uk Medallion TL® is a Registered Trademark of a Syngenta Group Company. Medallion TL (MAPP 15287, PCS 04188) contains fludioxonil. All other brand names used are trademarks of other manufacturers in which proprietary rights may exist. Use plant protection products safely. Always read the label and product information before use. For further product information including warning phrases and symbols refer to www.greencast.co.uk.50 GI OCTOBER 2015©Syngenta@BIGGALtd AG September 2014. GQ 05648. Distributed in the UK and Ireland by Everris Limited, Tel: 0844 8094470 Email: [email protected] Web: www.everris.com

05648_IOG Medallion TL Advert 420x147.indd 1 17/09/2014 12:01 SPECIES MANAGEMENT

Rescue station result of treated rough after one year

Long-lasting Medallion TL Medallion TL gives you the confidence and peace of mind that your turf is safely protected. Bio-inspired The fludioxonil in Medallion TL is the ONLY Contact+ active – targeting disease on the leaf explosive AND in the thatch.

Visit www.greencast.co.uk performance for more information

Syngenta UK Ltd. Registered in England No. 849037. CPC4, Capital Park, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5XE E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.greencast.co.uk Medallion TL® is a Registered Trademark of a Syngenta Group Company. Medallion TL (MAPP 15287, PCS 04188) contains fludioxonil. All other brand names used are trademarks of other manufacturers in which proprietary rights may exist. Use plant protection products safely. Always read the label and product information before use. For further product information including warning phrases and symbols refer to www.greencast.co.uk. ©Syngenta AG September 2014. GQ 05648. @BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 51 Distributed in the UK and Ireland by Everris Limited, Tel: 0844 8094470 Email: [email protected] Web: www.everris.com

05648_IOG Medallion TL Advert 420x147.indd 1 17/09/2014 12:01 Hard choices for trees in Hertfordshire Dr Terry Mabbett joins a team attempting to preserve ancient trees while simultaneously ensuring the health and safety of golfers

From left to right: Shane Lanigan, Michael Watts and Billy Ryan of Urban Forestry

Golf courses are custodians of very Hard decisions in Hertfordshire Having spent many days with arborists old native trees although many from all over the English Home don’t realise the true value of those On a superbly sunny day I Counties and beyond, I can safely say flanking the fairways. Most are accompanied a team of arborists to a that Urban Forestry is a prime example English oaks which at 500 years or tree-rich course in West Hertfordshire. of what I would call the ‘thinking more old clearly qualify for official Urban Forestry at Abbot’s Langley man’s’ arboriculture company. On site ‘Ancient Tree’ status. (West Hertfordshire) is contracted to at Rickmansworth that day was owner maintain the trees on Rickmansworth and director Shane Lanigan, specialist English oak like common beech, of Municipal Golf Course, a membership climber Billy Ryan and ground operator much shorter natural longevity and and pay-as-you-play course owned Michael Watts. with many trees now at the limit of by Three Rivers District Council and their normal life span of 200-250 years adjoining Moor Park Golf Course. A tale of two beech trees (for maidens), are relics of the farmland and country estates on which golf Rickmansworth Municipal Golf As the landowner with a large courses were traditionally built. A wide Course is one of the most tree-rich population of old trees (including range of tree species have been planted courses I have seen in South East Ancient and Veteran specimens) Three across the nation’s golf courses over England. From age and form the oldest Rivers Council finds itself in a ‘Catch the last two hundred years. Where they English oaks have ‘roots’ going back 22’ situation, needing to balance the can thrive (and survive) trees become to the seventeenth century when a preservation these living foundations of essential features for playability, mansion was built in the deer park environmental and ecological integrity aesthetics and biodiversity. of the ‘Manor of More’. More recently with health and safety requirements. established tree stock is down to The two big beech trees we saw that Golf courses are public places and three decades of dedicated planting by day presented a classic example of this safety is paramount. Maintaining the Graham Warne who is about to retire dilemma. environmental and ecological value from the greenkeeping team. of trees, while ensuring structural The Three Rivers District Council made A serious major branch failure a year integrity and therefore player and a good choice in securing the services earlier on one these trees flanking public safety, often presents golf of Urban Forestry to look after their a fairway is what had prompted the course managements with conflicting trees. The company has a well-earned latest course-wide tree survey at demands and situations that require reputation for doing the right things Rickmansworth, carried out by an arb compromise. Such problems are most for the environment, ecology and consultancy, and subsequent retention acutely felt and difficult to resolve biodiversity, while not compromising of Urban Forestry to do the remedial when old trees at their ecological peak on the safety issues that always work. require drastic remedial work. accompany trees in public places.

52 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd HARD CHOICES FOR TREES IN HERTFORDSHIRE

The beech tree in question was historically allowed to tumble down because “modern ropes being braided approaching 30m in height and into woodland and this dell was home are very susceptible to damage” said estimated by Shane to be between to half dozen more beech trees of the Shane. 150-200 years old. In spring 2014 same vintage. Debris was deposited the tree lost a substantial part of its in the dell, using the company’s John In the event none of this was to be crown, during the day and within Deere 6920 tractor to winch the heavy when we saw evidence of nesting falling distance of a fairway on one side branches into position. Jackdaws higher in the tree. The team, and a golf green apron on the other. in accordance with The Wildlife and Magnitude of the failure and collateral Next on the agenda was one of the Countryside Act 1981, stopped all work damage caused was visible from a beech trees growing in the dell. It was on the tree. “We will return at the end massive rupture half way up the tree similar size and age to the one just of the nesting season to complete the and scarring caused by falling debris worked on but was covered with dense work on this tree”, said Shane. still evident in the turf some 15m out woody ivy from ground level to 20 from the base of the tree. metres up the trunk and ‘threatening’ Preserving Ancient Trees on golf to make things much more difficult for courses The arb consultancy had recommended Billy. substantial reduction to the 17m Rickmansworth Municipal Golf Course height initially agreed by Urban Reason given for felling was significant is just one of many golf courses in Forestry and endorsed by them after die-back of the crown coupled with a the country which are custodians of Shane identified an active Meripilus precariously close Meripilus infection some very old native trees, of Ancient fungal infection in the collar region which had already resulted in the Tree status and therefore intrinsically of the tree in autumn 2014. The now loss of an adjacent beech tree. In this valuable. In my view the Ancient Tree dried up ‘bracket-like’ sporophores condition and towering over a golfing Forum should do the rounds of the (spore bearing structures) were green the tree clearly presented a nation’s golf courses and put down still evident between the root flares significant safety risk to players, markers on these trees. in spring 2015. Meripilus fungal while casting dense shade over the infections are common in old beech turf during summer. Dense persistent trees and frequently the single most shade prevents turf from drying out important factor contributing to thus providing ideal conditions for significant height reductions and the proliferation of bryophyte weeds frequently felling, especially in safety (mosses and liverworts) and fungal sensitive situations. diseases like Fusarium Patch.

Before climbing the tree Billy measured Leaf geometry (shape of leaves, angle its CBH (circumference at breast at which they are borne on the stem height) at 4.7m which according to and arrangement in relation to each standard tables put this tree at around other) makes the shade cast by the 200 years old and as an open-grown beech tree the densest of that caused maiden beech clearly nearing its ‘sell by any British native deciduous trees. by date’. This, together with the beech tree’s intrinsically shallow root system, is Billy lost no time in scaling the tree. why it is able to shade out virtually His Stihl MS 200 saw equipped with all plant competition to form pure a 12 inch bar is able to cut clean beech woods. It was these dual public through anything up this diameter and safety/turf management issues which enabling him to remove the ends of underpinned the decision to cut down the top most branches with no trouble the tree. at all. With this complete and now presented with the much thicker lower “Dense ivy can be a nightmare for ends of scaffold branches he called climbers” said Shane as Billy started down for the company’s bigger Stihl 46 his ascent up the tree, adding how he saw. would have to clear the ivy ‘piecemeal’ during his climb. “As you can see the The tree reduction was complete in ivy is extending at least one metre out no time at all with debris now strewn from the trunk”. around the tree. With no woodchipper on site that day I asked Shane how All the safety measures were in place they intended to dispose of the or lined up. This included a fixed wood. Shane replied: “I successfully capstan around the base of the tree persuaded the golf course owners to used in preference to a flying capstan deposit the debris in the ‘dell’ as part because it offers less room for error of an eco-friendly programme” as and is therefore safer. Billy called down he pointed towards a wide and deep for the ‘wire core flipline’ which is more depression in landscape no more than rigid and therefore easier to use than a several metres from the tree. ‘Dells’ are ‘soft rope strop’. Also lined up for use common features of the west and mid was ‘cambium saver’. A cambium saver Hertfordshire landscape and relics of is normally used on trees that are not chalk and flint excavation going back being felled because it stops the rope to medieval times. around the tree heating up the bark and destroying the cambium beneath. Being historically associated with In this instance it would have caused witches and hobgoblins, dells were less abrasion on the climbing line

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 53 HARD CHOICES FOR TREES IN HERTFORDSHIRE

The beech tree scheduled for reduction had suffered a severe damage event with the loss of virtually half its crown in spring 2014 Introducing the Bayer With tree reduction complete the debris was deposited in the adjacent dell for eco-friendly reasons The beech tree was successfully Turf Solutions team reduced from around 30 m to 17 m

Billy Ryan completes the last stages of the beech tree reduction At Bayer our experienced UK team of former greenkeepers and groundsmen combine the expert scientifi c knowledge of Bayer with a practical understanding Billy Ryan cuts off the final branch and ‘down she goes’. of how our products can be integrated into your turf management programme.

The second beech tree located in the dell showed significant canopy die-back and was overhanging the adjacent golf green.

The tree was scheduled for felling primarily for safety reasons. However, due to the presence of nesting birds (jackdaws) work was stopped and postponed until the officially recognised bird nesting season (1st March to 31st August) had ended.

Ancient English oaks and many hundreds of years old on the Rickmansworth golf course.

Come and meet the Turf Solutions team at SALTEX on stand E110

Contact the Turf Solutions team with your questions Via the free to download at [email protected] or on 00800 1214 9451. Bayer TurfXpert app, you also have access to: You can also subscribe to receive regular updates from R Product information the team at www.environmentalscience.bayer.co.uk R Photo identifi cation The Turf Solutions team from Bayer can offer you: R Problem identifi cation & treatment R Technical support R Tailored advice R Training & seminars

Backed by Bayer

www.environmentalscience.bayer.co.uk © Bayer CropScience 2015.

54 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd Introducing the Bayer Turf Solutions team

At Bayer our experienced UK team of former greenkeepers and groundsmen combine the expert scientifi c knowledge of Bayer with a practical understanding of how our products can be integrated into your turf management programme.

Come and meet the Turf Solutions team at SALTEX on stand E110

Contact the Turf Solutions team with your questions Via the free to download at [email protected] or on 00800 1214 9451. Bayer TurfXpert app, you also have access to: You can also subscribe to receive regular updates from R Product information the team at www.environmentalscience.bayer.co.uk R Photo identifi cation The Turf Solutions team from Bayer can offer you: R Problem identifi cation & treatment R Technical support R Tailored advice R Training & seminars

Backed by Bayer www.environmentalscience.bayer.co.uk © Bayer CropScience 2015. Royal North Devon

choose Durabunker

The oldest golf course in England, We decided shortly after the initial 3 in Germany), Frosaker affectionately described as ‘The St project that we would like to undertake GC (Ranked in the top 10 Andrews of the South’ and famed a major bunker renovation and in Sweden) and have just for its bunkers, in particular the began the second phase of work in completed the first phase of 15ft tall, sleeper faced beast, September, under a licence agreement a major bunker renovation known as ‘Cape Bunker’, recently with, allowing us to use our own staff at Tiburon GC, Florida, demonstrated its willingness to to install the product. Durabunker a Greg Norman Design, break with tradition by committing Director, Rhydian Lewis was on site which hosts the LPGA Tour to a major bunker renovation using for the duration of the first phase Championships and the the synthetic bunker product, and again at the start of the second PGA Tour event known as Durabunker. phase and we certainly benefited from ‘The Franklyn Templeton Durabunker uses re-cycled synthetic his input and knowledge, both of the Shootout’. material to build durable, maintenance product and bunker construction in Rhydian Lewis, co-inventor free bunker faces and edges, offering general. We are re-shaping many of of all design patents and many benefits over established yet our bunkers with a view to increasing registered designs associated maintenance heavy natural turf the gathering areas, so although the with Durabunker commented: construction. Durabunkers can now majority of the bunkers themselves “To have recently made be found at various venues in the are relatively small, they will actually ‘bunker history’ through the UK, Europe and USA and was first gather the ball from a much wider area installation of the first ever commissioned at Royal North Devon than they would have done previously. synthetic bunker faces at a Golf Club (RND) in May 2015. We discussed these ideas with Rhydian PGA Tour venue and now Mark Evans, General Manager and and felt it important to agree a clear to be embarking on a major former Head Greenkeeper at RND, design methodology before the start renovation at RND is real who was instrumental in bringing the of the second phase of the project, privilege. It is a bold step product to the club, commented: particularly as the bunkers will be here for RND to embrace and “Bunkers at RND have long suffered for many years to come. It is important implement synthetics on from sheep damage and we felt it was we get it right. such a traditional golf course. time to trial an alternative solution. The bunkers built thus far look so The role of synthetics in golf After attending a Durabunker neat and for a golf course like ours we and sport in general is a demonstration at St Enodoc GC, and believe they will be a strong investment very emotive subject and as seeing how good the bunkers looked for many years to come.” such to have the oldest club there, we decided to trial them on the Synthetic bunker faces and edges in England adopt synthetic golf course with a small introductory are growing in popularity as the bunker faces is a great project in May 2015. The results benefits begin to be more widely validation of our product and were really pleasing and we received understood. Durabunker now have company”. overwhelmingly positive feedback from on-going renovation projects at “We have understandably the membership following the phase courses including Seaton Carew met resistance along the way. one project. GC, Budersand GC (Ranked No. When I first introduced the

56 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd DURABUNKER Royal North Devon

will be debated for many years to come and Durabunker is certainly a product at the forefront of that discussion. Lewis concluded: “We are not promoting the use of synthetic playing surfaces; nobody will ever play a shot off our bunker edges. The vast majority of members don’t even realize that the bunkers they are playing from are synthetic!! We are promoting a solution to an array of problems associated with bunker faces and edges and choose Durabunker hope that many other courses will continue to follow in the footsteps of Royal North Devon and explore the benefits our product could bring them”.

concept of building synthetic bunker faces to the executive committee at my home club, • Design Life 20 + Years I was met with large amounts • Significant Cost and Maintenance Savings of scepticism. It was only • Resistant to Extreme Weather • Prevents Sand Contamination after much persuasion that • Resistant to Burrowing Animals the club agreed to build the • Permenant Fixed Edges world’s first ever synthetic • Environmentally Friendly revetted bunker face. I think • Granted International Patents it’s fair to say that when Mark and I first met at BTME many years ago, he shared that scepticism but on seeing the product, how natural it looks and how it performs, that resistance softened somewhat “In 40 years at this course, using the DURAbunker method to build bunkers and we were able to win him is the most spectacular change made” – Tony Cartwright, Course Manager, Seaton Carew GC over”. “At RND the main issues are caused by exposure to seaside elements, coupled with the particular problem of damage caused by sheep. Our product has proven a solution to these issues, along with many others, over a number of years. As well as providing a much more sustainable method to build classic links style bunkers, Durabunker is equally at home on inland courses where clubs are looking to produce much shallower edges to offer fixed shaped and sized bunkers. The savings on edging work alone is huge” The role of synthetics in Golf

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 57 Section Notes Please email your notes to All the latest news from your Section, steve.castle @bigga.co.uk by the 10th in your new-look notes pages... of the month Around the green

include soup & sandwiches. Please can you arrive for 10.15/30 am, to allow time to get to your allocated hole.

SOUTH WEST OF SCOTLAND Scotland We look forward to seeing you at the upcoming AGM being held at Irvine Bogside on 29th October and the Ecology walk & Northern with Bob Taylor at Powfoot on 10th November. NORTHERN IRELAND Everyone should have received their invites and the first ever Ireland BIGGA Northern Ireland Golf Championship will have taken place on the Dufferin Course, Clandeboye Golf Club on Friday Bigga Scottish Region 2nd October. Prior to this a meeting will take place to discuss future events for the section. Contact your Section correspondent with news, Top prize is the Championship Cup, which is awarded to the events or anything else for Around the green... player with the best gross score on the day with the Challenge Cup awarded to the player with the best nett score. I’m very much looking forward to posting results in next months GI mag with a couple of pics. It promises to be a terrific event with greenkeepers battling it out on the course before heading to the clubhouse for dinner on the Friday evening. May I also make an appeal for venues to host our golf days in CENTRAL SOUTH WEST OF SCOTLAND EAST 2016 and also venues and ideas for educational purposes. We’ll Craig Boath Amanda Dorans & Ian Smith Hamish Campbell cboath@ [email protected] / greenkeeper@alancampbell. always appreciate it when a club gives us a venue as it isn’t carnoustiegolflinks. [email protected] demon.co.uk co.uk easy to fit us in on their busy schedules.

Bigga South West Scotland Bigga Scottish East Bigga Central @BIGGA_ES Section News

CENTRAL Main prizewinners at our Autumn Outing at Drumoig GC wer David Gray - best scratch score and best aggregate for the spring and autumn combined, Richard Devlin.- best stableford score, Kenny Mitchell - best stableford in section one. NORTH WEST NORTHERN IRELAND A Special Prize of green tea went to Pat Allan who is retiring Paul Sharp & Neil Sadler Stuart Taylor Chris McArthur [email protected] stuart.taylor@ [email protected] at the end of the month. All the Best Pat!! [email protected] glasgowgolfclub. com Bigga Northern There were 46 players in total. Thanks to all the Patrons for Ireland their continued support and to everyone at Drumoig Golf Club for hosting us, the course was in great condition. Events Coming Up The Section Pairs event is down to the semi-final stage: James Naylor and Ian Scott v Scott Robertson and Stuart EAST Griffiths, Paul Murphy and Ian Menzies v Neil Ballingall and The East Section AGM will take place at Dundas Park Golf David Gray. Club on the 27th October with a demonstration of the Air2G2. Well Done to Richard Jenkinson, who will be receiving the Any proposals for the meeting should be forwarded to a section’s Patrons Award. member of the committee. Finally, I hope everything went well for St Andrews, If anyone has any ideas and proposals for a Xmas day/night Kingsbarns and Carnoustie during the Dunhill Links out or any other social event, please get in touch. Championship.

NORTH EAST Alistair Matheson, our Education Convenor will be looking The Willie Woods competition was hosted at Broomieknowe to organise some seminars for the section over the next few Golf Club on August 20th, many thanks to Broomieknowe for months. Obviously this takes time and planning to make it their hospitality. The winners were Sean Cunningham and happen, so any help or ideas about what the members would Colin Mc Arthur from Craig Hempseed and Robert King, all be interested in, would be a huge benefit to All. Please get in from Mortonhall Golf Club, longest drive Keith Burgon and touch with Alistair or via the email addresses above. closest to the pin Steven Henderson, well done folks! This years AGM will be held on the 22nd of October at Just as it looks as if we are getting an Indian Summer we get Deeside golf club. There will be a 11.00am shotgun start with this!! These pics were taken 48 hours apart in Edinburgh, hope the AGM to follow. The cost of the day will be £10 which will the weather has been kind to you.

58 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd Massive congratulations to Blair Shearer, Dunbar Golf Club, SOUTH WEST OF SCOTLAND for being this years East Section Patrons Award winner, we The greenkeeping industry is in mourning on hearing the look forward to hearing all about your visit to BTME 2016. news that George Brown has sadly passed away. George East Section now has a twitter account @BIGGA_ES add us was without a doubt a legend in his own time and he will be and keep in touch. greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and the countless people who worked with George throughout his NORTH successful career. Hopefully the weather will have given us all the chance to Thank you to Keith Aitken and his team at Brodick for get the autumn renovation work completed. It’s been a tough providing a wonderful venue and superb hospitality for the season regarding weather, which made it very important to Section’s Autumn Outing. The sun was shining and the day complete these tasks. was enjoyed by all. It was also great to meet two of Arran’s Well done to Phil Don and his staff for presenting Kemnay other course managers Jim Mackenzie and Dave Jeffries and GC in excellent condition for the Section’s autumn outing on hear about their respective highs and lows of island life. A 10th September. 45 members played in the event with scoring more detailed account of the day and winners will feature in higher than normal due to the windy conditions. Well that’s my next month’s edition. excuse anyway! Thank you to Graeme King for sponsoring the new South Top golfer of the day was Chris Lamb from Newmacher GC West Of Scotland’s trophy and also congratulations to Graeme who must get bored of winning all the time! He registered a who is the first to achieve his name on the back as well as the gross 73, which would be an average scorecard for Chris until front – well done Graeme, you played some great golf! you notice the 10 at the 8th hole! Chris also won the Scottish The Section outings and education days have been well Championships recently at Portlethen GC, as well as the spring attended this year, so thank you to everyone for their support. outing at the beginning of the season. That means Chris picks Congratulations to Iain Barr and his wife who have just up our annual Mark Main Trophy for the combined total from celebrated their Silver Anniversary – hope you both had a lovely both our outings. Well done to all who attended and continue day! to support our section. Good luck to Ian Scott who is leaving Largs G.C. for a sunnier climate – best of luck in Oz! Results from the outing are as follows; • Scratch – 1st C. Lamb (73 BIH), 2nd A. Lindsay (73) NORTHERN IRELAND • Class 1 – 1st P. Marshall (71), 2nd R. Macrae (72), 3rd N. Our section events will soon be up and gaining momentum, Sadler (75) with some key dates for your diary. Check out the events • Class 2 – 1st M. McLaren (74), 2nd D. Middleton (76), 3rd section on the website or log into the members area and select G. Hamilton (77 BIH) ‘Regions and Sections’. Hopefully all members will endeavour • Class 3 – 1st D. Robertson (78), S. Frost (82), 3rd G. to attend these events and encourage their staff to do so, as we Beattie (94) are all capable of learning something new. • Apprentice Winner – C. Lamb (74) As a new section to get up and running, BIGGA Northern • Veterans – 1st J. McCormack (76), 2nd D. Robertson (78) Ireland welcomes those companies involved in the • Committee Winner – R. Macrae (72) greenkeeping industry to participate in the patronage scheme. • Trade Winner – K. Liddell, TAS (79) The Patrons will provide an opportunity to support the • Sweep – 1st P. Marshall (71), 2nd R. Macrae (72), 3rd A. association while increasing their profile throughout the region. Lindsay (73), 4th C. Lamb (74) Anyone who would like to discuss the Patronage scheme then • Nearest the Pin – P. Sharp (6th), C. Lamb (10th) please contact John Young on 07776 242120 or by emailing [email protected] Our 200 Club has been a huge success again this year. Our quarterly winners are Robert Lamb (£30), Mark Thain (£30), William Findlay (£50) and Mrs P. Morrison (£100). Well done to Thanks to Sponsors all the winners. EAST Thanks to Thomas Sherriff Groundscare for the demonstration during the Willie Woods tournament at Broomieknowe.

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 59 Around The Green SHEFFIELD The Christmas Competition will take place on Thursday, 10th December at The Waterfront so look forward to seeing as Northern many of you there as possible. News

CLEVELAND September is always a busy maintenance month for most of the clubs in the Cleveland section and I bet we have all heard this at least once during maintenance week “why are you doing that to the greens they are perfect now?” Or words to that effect! I like to pride myself in being able to pre-empt the Contact your Section correspondent with news, question and look to provide the information for the members events or anything else for Around the green... through all the mediums we have at our disposal nowadays, be it Twitter, Facebook, Course Blog and the good old fashioned notices on every single notice board that I can find in the clubhouse! I don’t think I’m alone in this and I’m sure there are guys out there that get more than just the odd comment during top dressing week and if you are one of those guys I feel for you. On the bright side though in a weeks’ time, when all

NORTH EAST NORTH WEST CLEVELAND the work has repaired and the greens are performing as well as Glen Baxter Tom Wood Anthony McGeough they have ever done, you are once again a grass god! [email protected] & Tim Johnson [email protected] [email protected]/tim_ Our very own Ian Pemberton completed the Great North Run [email protected] with his son Tom, 13 miles is no easy task and everyone who Bigga North East BIGGA Cleveland Section @NEBIGGA competed I tip my hat to you. BIGGANorthWest @BIGGA NorthWest The Whitemoss trophy where the mighty Cleveland section were defending their title did not go according to plan and, unfortunately, this time around the dream team of Richie Hood, Paul Legg and Dave Cuthbertson couldn’t hold on to the trophy. BIGGA Northern Region Inter Section sponsored by Whitemoss Eco. The competition took place at Middlesbrough Golf Club, Brass Castle on a superb day. The winners with 94 NORTHERN SHEFFIELD NORTH WALES Chris Goodall Ian Whitehead Pete Maybury points were Sheffield Section Thanks must go to Whitemoss christopher admin@hillsborough [email protected] Eco, John Talbot and team for a superb course and to Karen [email protected] golfclub.co.uk Smith and the house team for looking after us all so well and to North Wales B.I.G.G.A. everyone who travelled to take part in the competition. BIGGA Northern Section BIGGA Sheffield Section @Bigga NorthWales @Sheffield Bigga NORTH EAST The Autumn Seminar at Whitley Bay Golf Club proved to be Events Coming Up a really enjoyable and informative day with course walks and presentations from Jonathan Gaunt and James Hutchinson, CLEVELAND a fantastic presentation on pollination and bee keeping from Bring a Bottle 2015 Fun Day Cleveland GC on 8th December Eddie Ainsworth and a great presentation from Paul Lowe. 2015, 11.00am tee off. This is always a well-attended day and Thanks go to all the speakers, sponsors, Whitley Bay Golf Club hopefully we will not have the snow they’re predicting. The cost for hosting the event and to all who attended. for the day is £18.00, it would be lovely to see you. As a bit of The Autumn Tournament was kindly hosted at Ponteland fun I will be putting on a prize for the loudest dressed player, Golf Club where Paddy Hetherington and his Team had go on have a laugh and let’s make it a fun day. prepared those greens to their usual pristine condition, running at an incredible 12+, sunshine and toil all the way. NORTH EAST Thoroughly enjoyable day guys, thank you. The results were Our Christmas Bring-a-Bottle, Win-a-Bottle will take place winner of Handicap Group 1-12 1st on countback with 34 at Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club on Friday, 11th December points Jordan Gibson, 2nd with 34 points Jack Friar, 3rd with where merriment may take place well into the evening. Camper 32 points Craig Kilgour. Handicap Group 13-28 1st on count vans and tents can be accommodated if arranged with Stuart back with 31 points was Alex Robson, 2nd with 31 points John Imeson in advance! Moutrie and 3rd with 30 points was Alan Smith. Thank you to Ponteland Golf Club, our sponsors and to everyone who NORTH WALES attended. The Christmas tournament and A.G.M. take place at Nefyn Golf Club on 26th November; this is always a popular event so NORTHERN please make sure you return your entry form to Carl by 18th of Thanks to David Hannam MG for sending this photo of November. BIGGA member Adrian Robertson, retired former Head Greenkeeper at Ilkley Golf Club, standing next to a Redwood NORTH WEST at Ilkley. He said: “Greenkeepers, being custodians of the We have our autumn seminar coming up at Myerscough landscape, are largely responsible for what does or does not College on the 28th October, one of the speakers is Steve grow on the golf club estate. Chappell, Course Manager of Gleneagles. “This fine specimen of a Dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) was introduced to the site with future planning to the 4th green region at Ilkley in the mid 1970s. Its girth is now fully 4 feet in diameter.”

60 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd Around The Green NORTH WEST team for preparing an excellent course and to Rigby Taylor for We would like to congratulate John McLoughlin of organising the event. Warrington Golf Club and his wife Alex on the birth of their daughter Honor Grace, fantastic news and we are all delighted SHEFFIELD for you. The Autumn Tournament took place at Tankersley Hall We would also like to wish Richard Stephens now of Ringway Golf Club, thanks must go to Tim Greenfield and his team for Golf Club all the luck in the world in your new role. With that preparing a great course, to Russell Groundcare for sponsoring in mind we would like to wish Jim Granger, who is retiring the event and to everyone who attended. The winner was from Ringway Golf Club, an enjoyable and relaxing retirement. Wayne Lazenby with 39 points, second went to Neil Peters on You’ve been a fantastic member of the greenkeeping industry count back with 37 points, third place went to Mark Crawshaw and you deserve all the happiness in the world. with 37 points and fourth place to Matt Holden with points. The summer started with 24 entrants for the first North Matt Holden also won the longest drive and Steve Wragg won West Knockout sponsored by Campey Turfcare. 23 rounds nearest pin. of golf later and the Final was played at Hillside Golf Club between Jim Grainger of Ringway Golf Club and Chris Harding if Prestwich Golf Club. Despite the weather predictions the Thanks to Sponsors evening was warm and sunny with just enough wind to create NORTH EAST a little more challenge. The course, prepared to Martin Twist’s Thank you to our 2015 sponsors, TLS, Rigby Taylor, exacting standards, really was stunning. The result was Greenlay Ltd and Rickerby Ltd. that Chris Harding won, pictured from left to right are Chris Harding, Ray Walker (Club Captain Hillside Golf Club), Jason NORTH WEST Lord (Campey Turfcare), Jim Grainger and Tim Johnson (North The North West section would like to thank all of the West Section Chairman). Thanks must be conveyed to Campey section sponsors for the continued support that they provide Turfcare for sponsoring the event and Hillside Golf Club for throughout the year. hosting the final. Congratulations to Trevor Davies of Southport Old Links Golf Club for winning the Rigby Taylor Classic, the event took place at Preston Golf Club, thanks must go to Andy Merry and his

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 61 Around The Green News

It’s been a busy time down here with plenty of grass to cut due to the incessant rain during August but everyone seems to South West be coping well. The last month has seen both Mike Ellis and Cameron Mcmorrin resign their positions on the committee due to & South personal reasons. They will be missed and we wish them well. The committee would like to thank Ron Skinner for taking over Mike’s role as secretary in the interim period until the AGM in Wales October. Someone on the move from our section is Shaun Tuffin. Shaun has worked as a greenkeeper/mechanic at Falmouth for 4 years. He studied at Duchy College where he achieved Contact your Section correspondent with news, NVQ level 2 and was regional finalist for student greenkeeper events or anything else for Around the green... of the year. He volunteered at the BMW Championship at Wentworth, it was during this time that he showed a keen work ethic and attention to detail that led to him being approached by Wentworth to work there permanently. He will working on the East course. He leaves Falmouth with the best wishes for the future from Simon and his team. Shaun is looking forward to his new challenge and some peace and quiet at crib time! SOUTH WEST – SOUTH COAST – DEVON & SOUTH WALES The section would like to congratulate our regional Jaey Goodchild Steve Thorne CORNWALL Andrew Hatcher j.goodchild@ biggasouthcoast@ Cameron McMorrin andrewhatcher1@ administrator Tracey Walker on her recent wedding. bowood.org hotmail.com cjmcmorrin@gmail. msn.com com SOUTH COAST Bigga Southwest Bigga South Coast Bigga South Wales Our third Turf Club event was held at Hockley Golf Club, @Bigga @BIGGA Bigga Devon and @BIGGASouth Southwest southcoast Cornwall Wales Hampshire. This event proved hugely popular, with around thirty Section Members taking up the opportunity to be shown Events Coming Up around the course by Glenn Kirby and his team. A full report of this event can be found in the “Newsdesk” section of the DEVON & CORNWALL magazine. The Section AGM will be held at China Fleet on October 15th where the golfers will be competing for the Toro cup with a tee SOUTH WALES off at 8:30am, the non-golfers will be led on a course walk by Two opportunities are still open to any member to receive Nathan O’Sullivan. a sponsored place at BTME 2016. It includes three nights accommodation, the benefit of education and networking with SOUTH COAST other greenkeepers, our section has sponsored one place and This year’s South Coast Section AGM is scheduled for also one by the Region. Wednesday 11th November at Barton on Sea Golf Club, Hampshire. Following the success of last year’s event, we will SOUTH WEST follow a similar format with the AGM being followed by lunch A fantastic opportunity for South West Section members to and then afterwards, a course walk. Tony and the team at attend BTME in Harrogate in January 2016 is available. For Barton have undertaken a huge amount of construction and your chance to attend the flagship event for greenkeeping and changes around the course and this is a great opportunity turf management with accommodation and the opportunity to see what has been happening. As ever, the AGM is free to attend the outstanding education programme please email our attend to all members, so, if you would like to book a place, section address with a short mail telling us why you would like then please contact [email protected]. to attend and what you hope to achieve from visiting BTME and Continue to Learn. ([email protected]). SOUTH WALES On Wednesday 21st October we head to Swansea, to play at Langland Bay Golf Club with breath taking views across the Thanks to Sponsors Bristol Channel. The tee is booked for 11.00 am, coffee and SOUTH WEST bacon roll on arrival, followed by a three course evening meal Many thanks to our South West Section 2015 Patrons: after golf. It’s also your chance of making your voice heard Headland Amenity, Countrywide, Farmura, H Curtis & within your section at our AGM. Sons, Ecosolve, T H White, Greensman and Irritech for their continued and valuable support of the BIGGA South SOUTH WEST West Section. Without their support we would not have the Our South West Section AGM is Thursday 8 October being opportunity to provide the level of training and section events held at Worlebury Golf Club, near Weston Super Mare. In that we provide. addition to our meeting we will have two speakers giving presentations on topical issues and following our meeting golf Welcome New Members will be available for those keen for a few holes. 8 October South West Section AGM at Worlebury Golf Club Tom Glover, Greenkeeper, Lyme Regis Golf Club 18 November Regional Conference at Somerset County James Matthewman, Greenkeeper, Maesteg Golf Club Cricket Club Nathaniel Riddett, Greenkeeper, Shanklin & Sandown Golf 15 December Christmas Tournament at Marlborough Golf Club Club Steve Waddell, Assistant Greenkeeper, Carlyon Bay Golf Club Entrants in the South West Section Countrywide Knockout Dale Headech, Assistant Greenkeeper, Tidworth Garrison Golf please stay in contact with Joe Curtis greens@gloucestergolf. Club com to ensure the draw and results are up to date.

62 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd Around The Green Start: 10:00 - Cost £27 Closing Date: 21st November Prize Sponsor - Campey Turfcare Midland Partners To Be Drawn On The Day News

B, B & O Congratulations from all of BB&O to Susan Reeve on finishing as Runner Up in the Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year. East of England Sleaford GC hosted the biennial BIGGA vs GCMA match last month. It was a glorious day and the golf Contact your Section correspondent with news, course was in superb condition so many thanks to events or anything else for Around the green... Ian Batty and his team and to the club for having us. The GCMA team came out on top this year so congratulations to them on this occasion.

EAST MIDLANDS The Headland Amenity pairs final was played on 24th September at The Belfry, a special thanks BB&O - The Stick MID ANGLIA MIDLAND EAST OF ENGLAND EAST MIDLANDS bboscribe@gmail. Darren Mugford Dave Collins Steve Beverly Matt Gilks to Angus and the team, the Brabazon Course was com or Matt Nutter d.mugford@ greendave2004@ steveimmingham@ [email protected] in great condition. The final was played between bbosecretary@gmail. rigbytaylor.com hotmail.co.uk aol.com com Rothley Park’s Asa English & Nigel Colley and Market East Midlands BIGGA Harborough’s Chris Weir & Ken Bonser, after an Bigga Mid Anglia Bigga Midland EastofEnglandbigga @biggaeastmids BB&O Greenkeepers Section excellent front nine Market Harborough were 4up @bbogreen @BIGGA and then Chris drove the famous 10th hole to go 5up keepers Midlands with eight to play. Then the turnaround began and Events Coming Up they came to the 18th all square, Nigel dumped it in the water piling pressure on to Asa which he handled B, B & O admirably to take the match to extra holes. Unusually The Autumn Cup proudly sponsored by Rigby Tayler at Beaconsfield these were on a different course – the PGA National! on the 21st October. Ultimately a birdie from Nigel on the 20th secured the Following the huge success of the 2014 Turkey Trot we will return to title for Rothley. well done Nigel and Asa. Frilford Heath again this year on the 2nd December for the sponsored Special mention and Congratulations to Asa English by T H White and Ransomes Jacobsen. running a PB of 1hr 32 in the Robin Hood Half Marathon. EAST OF ENGLAND If any club in the Section are keen to host golf The Autumn golf day and AGM will take place on Thursday 15th competitions next year or beyond please contact Asa October at Peterborough Milton Golf Club. Please contact Bruce Hicks English to discuss. at [email protected] if you wish to enter. Full details are on the BIGGA website. MIDLAND The Christmas competition this year will take place at Immingham Hello everyone as I write I’m preparing for a 60 GC on Friday 11th December. Make a note in your diary. Full details to mile walk along with fellow committee members follow soon. Harvey Brooke and Mal Mitchell along with five other members walking from Sheffield to York to EAST MIDLANDS raise money for the BIGGA Benevolent Fund, a great The autumn Golf Tournament and AGM is at Willesley Park, on 28th charity that could benefit anyone of us, if you see any October, £20 entry 9:30am tee off, AGM at 15:30pm. of us please donate a quid and make us happy :) Christmas Tournament at Birstall 3rd December, it’s a pairs Kidderminster was a great day for the autumn tournament so get your guest ready. tournament and Rod and his team had the course in great condition. Simon Banks and his team of MID ANGLIA Simon White, Adam Jones, and Andy Wood coming The Section will be running a Seminar on November 25th at John out victors on the day, over 40 people attended which O Gaunt GC with the guest speaker being Dr Mark Pawlett from was a great turn out for the third event on the trot, Cranfield University. Entry forms with full details of the day will be thank you to everyone who came along and please e-mailed out shortly. There will be a small charge to members, however if you’re unsure come along and we will do our best we have secured some funding from the Learning & Development fund to make you all welcome, also at Kidderminster the from BIGGA to make this possible, so please support us. AGM was held and Mal Mitchell, Harvey Brooke and The Christmas golf day will take place at John O Gaunt GC on Kim Blake were voted on to an already growing and Wednesday 9th December so please make a note in your diary. Entry strong committee, please if you have any ideas for forms will be available to download soon from the BIGGA website. education or golf days speak to a committee member and everything will be looked at. I f you have any info MIDLAND for the magazine let me know. Wimbledon Day Trip - 14th October A Day out to Wimbledon for only £10 including coach transport and Thanks to Sponsors food provided, sponsored by Everris, limited to a maximum of two staff per course to make sure its shared out equally, get in contact quickly MIDLAND as this will be very popular. Contact Gary Watkins on 07738199374. Thanks to calendar sponsors for October North Winter Tournament Blackwell Golf Club - Wednesday 9th December Staffs Irrigation, contact them on 01785 811747.

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 63 Around The Green To the staff at HQ I would also like to thank them all, for the help with things related to our section and the association. One last thank you, to the Essex section for their support over the fifteen years I have been on their South East committee in various roles, and for the generous gift the section gave me, presented by Section President Martin Forrester, I will forever treasure those memories. Life for me in semi-retirement now moves to Talsarn, Mid-Wales where I hope I can make a small contribution to the association if needed. Enough of me, the Essex section have just held their Autumn Team Trophy event at Colne Valley golf club on Tuesday 29th September, this event had to be Contact your Section correspondent with news, re-arranged due to extreme weather conditions being events or anything else for Around the green... forecast for the middle of September and just as well as we had somewhere in the region of 40mm over a couple of days. Over twenty members managed to make the re- scheduled date on a fantastically sunny day that meant quite a few members cried off at the last moment, I suspect taking the opportunity to catch up on jobs that were held back due to the bad weather of late.

SURREY KENT SUSSEX EAST ANGLIA ESSEX LONDON First prize went to Team Colne Valley, 107points. Tom Mark Day Rob Holland Joe Dormer Mick Lathrope Arnold John Wells Smith, Peter Craig, Adi Cox (40points) Shaun Granshaw. mark@ premiergolf josephmichael lil.lathrope@ Phipps-Jones j.wells1@sky daylinks.co.uk 2012@hotmail. dormer@gmail. ntlworld.com essexbigga@ .com Second team – Team Banks, 104points. Simon Banks, co.uk com talktalk.net George Grimms, Sam Young, Mark Bishop. Surrey BIGGA BIGGA East Bigga London @surrey BIGGA Sussex Anglia Essex Bigga @Bigga Nearest the Pin bigga Section @BIGGA @essex London EastAnglia bigga 11th Mark Bishop 17th Shaun Granshaw

Events Coming Up The Section would like to thank the Smith family and staff for their hospitality and courtesy of the course at ESSEX Colne Valley. AGM and Christmas Team Texas Scramble PlayGolf Colchester Arnold Phipps-Jones Wednesday 25th November Entries to:- Antony Kirwan KENT 07887-780065 The first thing I have to say about our event at Walmer [email protected] & Kingsdown Golf Club is to congratulate the attendees for their strong support (as ever) and their fortitude and KENT perseverance in finding the very hidden gem! Redlibbets Golf Club on 26th November The location of the course seemed to be something of a mystery. All of our phones had long since switched over SURREY to the most local French network provider and Satnav 18th November Match vs Secretaries The Berkshire GC was demanding/pleading that we made multiple ‘U’- 3rd November England vs Scotland Hankley Common GC turns on the same stretch of straight road. 4th December Turkey Trot Guildford GC However, once found Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club is one not to be forgotten. Despite the rain we Education encountered on arrival, once the best bacon rolls in the county had been devoured, the sun broke through and 15th October Merrist Wood College Free Seminar shone down on the righteous Kent souls who took on the 11th November Hadlow Manor Hotel Kent Regional Conference challenge of this undulating course. Situated on the very precipice of the cliffs and boasting some fantastic views SUSSEX over the South Downs and the English Channel, the Sussex section AGM - November 4th, 2pm Crowborough Beacon Golf course certainly tested the athletic abilities as well as the Club golfing attributes of Kent’s finest. Despite a stiff breeze Ever popular Turkey trot at Worthing GC on Friday 27th November blowing into our faces no matter what way we turned Contact Pete Smith for further info scoring was surprisingly good. Many thanks to Ernest Doe & Sons for providing on News course refreshments. Much appreciated. Results as follows: ESSEX 1st Dan McGrath 41 points As I sit and write my last insertion into “Around the Green”, I am 2nd Mark Roach 37 points reflecting on the many years that I have been actively involved as 3rd Anthony Stockwell 36 points a member of this great association. Through my years within the Nearest Pin and Longest Drive by Ryan Hyder greenkeeping profession I have sat on many committees at section, region and national levels in the Midlands and Southeast. I would like Finally, on a sad note, I’m sure we were all shocked to to take this opportunity to thank all those that I have had the privilege hear of the passing of George Brown who had returned to to know over the years, also to those that have helped me through the Kent last year after a very illustrious career at Turnberry. tough times when all has not been as it should be, my wife and family It was a pleasure to meet George and our profession has who have stood by, when things don’t go quite right at work and in life, lost one of it’s finest. God Bless. supporting me, listening and understanding.

64 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd Around The Green SUSSEX The section would like to thank Joe Dormer for his efforts in trying to get us noticed on facebook and for his short stint writing for the section in GI. Thanks for the efforts of Simon Wells and his team at Pyecombe and Eric Green and his team at Beauport Park, and for their fantastic hospitality and for allowing the section to use their fantastic golf courses. On a nice calm day the section played its summer golf day at Pyecombe Golf Club, with 33 in attendance, format for the day was a stableford with a twist! Each player was able to use three mulligans and there were also three double point holes, this proved too much for some to work out, but for those with an abacus and good memories good scores were to be had! There are too many prize winners to mention all but the catagory winners were Simon Wells 47pts, Pete Smith 52pts, Steve Philp 50pts. The Section then moved its attention to its late summer golf day at Beauport Park, the format for the day was a four ball team stableford, 28 souls turned up to brave the tree-lined mountainous course, refreshments were provided before, during and after, with particular attention drawn to a full three course meal at the 9th! I can only assume this weighed heavily on some as scoring varied wildly between front and back nines for some teams that clearly filled up too much! Top 3 teams: Lister Wilders 78pts, Birch Grove/ESN 91pts and the hosts won with 104pts (Eric Green, Glynn Pollard, Rob Wallis, Tony Wolley). Thanks to Sponsors SUSSEX East Midlands Section Thanks to all our sponsors but especially extra thanks Headland Amenity Pairs Knockout Finalists to Godfreys for the refreshments at Pyecombe and to Lister Wilders for the refreshments and BBQ at Beauport Park. Chris Weir, Ken Bonser, Nigel Colley and Asa English

Welcome New Members Scotland And Northern Ireland South West and South Wales

Michael Bussey, Head Groundsman, Strathallan School Tom Glover, Greenkeeper, Lyme Regis Golf Club, Nicholas Menzies, Assistant Greenkeeper, Portstewart James Matthewman, Greenkeeper, Maesteg Golf Club, Golf Club Nathaniel Riddett, Greenkeeper, Shanklin & Sandown Golf Club, Steve Waddell, Assistant Greenkeeper, Carlyon Bay Golf Club, Dale Headech, Assistant Greenkeeper, Tidworth Garrison Golf Club Midland

Paul Fowkes, Greenkeeper, Rothley Park Golf Club Nicholas Smith, Greenkeeper, Rothley Park Golf Club Jonathan Davies, Assistant Greenkeeper, Ghyll Golf Club South East Stuart Maddison, Assistant Greenkeeper, Delapre Golf Stuart Bedford, Greenkeeper, Wyke Green Golf Club Complex, Callum Hutchinson, Assistant Greenkeeper, Daniel Graham, Greenkeeper, Links (Newmarket) Golf Club, James Kidderminster Golf Club Gotts, Greenkeeper, Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd, Adam D’Allesio, Greenkeeper, Mill Hill Golf Club, Northern Terry Redwood, Mechanic, Royal Mid-Surrey Golf Club, Charlie Smith, Assistant Greenkeeper, South Herts Golf Club, Ryan Adrian Keys, Greenkeeper, Wortley Golf Club, Archibald, Assistant Greenkeeper, Burnham-on-Crouch Golf Club, Gareth Williams, Assistant Greenkeeper, Pleasington Golf Callan Gent, Assistant Greenkeeper, Dale Hill Hotel Golf Club, Ryan Club, Nathan Cockroft, Assistant Greenkeeper, Noades, Assistant Greenkeeper, Addington Golf Club Ltd (The), Bradford Golf Club, Ryan Templeton, Assistant Martin Green, Assistant Greenkeeper, Wyke Green Golf Club Richard Greenkeeper, Wortley Golf Club, Chris Ashton, Assistant Cutts, Assistant Greenkeeper, Dale Hill Hotel Golf Club Greenkeeper, Moortown Golf Club International

Allan Devlin, International Member, City of Rockingham

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 65 s Trainin er g p C e o Greenkeepers Training e m

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t e

t Committee e r e

G This month David Golding, GTC’s Education Director,

Q d releases more exciting news in the world of greenkeeping u re ality Assu apprenticeships and qualifications

David Golding, GTC’s Standards and tailor all courses Education Director invites to suit the employer’s needs. Ron Skinner, a leading turf This we did and continue to do. tutor at the Duchy College The aim is that the college offers and Rob Dunn, Head of Land- quality programmes and this based and Food at Duchy has been supported by both the and Bicton Colleges, to GTC and City & Guilds through explain how, as one of GTC’s its External Verifiers. Quality Quality Assured Centres, is at the heart of all the colleges collaboration with the local turf provision and if ever there industry representatives, was an “issue” with our delivery especially the BIGGA Devon we would soon know about it, & Cornwall Section, their such is the superb greenkeeping education and training network! provision can meet the Wherever possible we use needs of both employer and GTC trained assessors both at employee. the golf courses and within the Duchy College has worked college quality assurance team. closely with the GTC to deliver The college has also used guest greenkeeping apprenticeships speakers from the industry, across Devon & Cornwall since which has provided added value 2004. Since that date virtually to the courses. Local Course every golf club & greenkeeper Managers and employers have in the region has been involved regularly encouraged visits to in approved training through their clubs to see a vast range Ron Skinner (r) the college. The majority of of projects being undertaken greenkeepers have a Level 2 which some apprentices may qualification; many have a Level never have seen at their home 3 and some a Level 4. course. St Mellion, Yelverton, is evident. The Industry Ron Skinner takes up the Portmore, Trevose, Woodbury should also be recognised and story of how it all started, “In Park, Burnham & Berrow Golf praised for its extraordinary contribution in developing the 2004 I was asked to coordinate Clubs to name just a few have The GTC is funded by: greenkeeping training from the provided great support. The trade new apprenticeship standards college. A very important part is also very generous supporting through the Trailblazer process. of the success of the college has the college, especially John With the approvals now in place been its strong relationship with Palfrey. Proposals for all courses, it is our intention to run the new the BIGGA Devon & Cornwall and the work of the college-based Golf Greenkeeper standard for Section and some amazing team are monitored through starts from 2016. The further personalities from the industry. regular communication and an work that the GTC and Industry The initial offer by Duchy annual Industry Meeting which is are doing in relation to the College to deliver greenkeeping invaluable to the college turf staff Advanced Golf Greenkeeper and courses was encouraged by and management. Golf Course Manager Standards Billy Mitchell (Course Manager, It is perhaps wrong to mention are very welcome additions. It Perranporth Golf Course) on individuals and apologies to any is essential to demonstrate to behalf of the Devon & Cornwall person who has supported the new entrants into an Industry Section. Billy and the Section Duchy turf team who has not that there is a potential for career members were keen to have a received a mention but some development and progression.” local college provider supporting notable contributors are certainly He added, “we believe the new the industry. In these early worthy of recognition: standards represent a major opportunity to further develop days Billy, with his well-known Steve Evans, when Course Contact Details passion for greenkeeper training, Manager at Yelverton Golf Club how we work with Devonand spent many hours assessing and Section Committee member Cornwall Greenkeepers to meet David F. Goulding their needs in developing the greenkeepers across Devon & had a real passion and drive to GTC Education Director Cornwall and refusing payment. support greenkeeping education. skills of their workforce.” and Standards Director, David Golding adds, “as we go The involvement of the Section Brian Summers, then Course Greenkeeper Training led to Bill Pile, Retired Head Manager at Carlyon Bay Hotel to print the GTC understands Greenkeeper and Section & Golf Club whilst being Section 01347 838640 Ron is leaving the college but is Committee Member, being Chairman also started to carry [email protected] doing so having done a fantastic job over the years and the college invited to work with the college. out some work for the college. GTC Terry Farkins, Course Manager Inevitably Brian retired but not now has the opportunity and is Aldwark Manor keen to continue to work with at Dartmouth Golf Course, was before he had trained up Roger Near Alne also consulted and has continued White who has, like myself, York this amazing local industry to be involved with the college for been adopted by the industry as YO61 1UF group, a true exemplar of a many years. Together a timetable “honorary greenkeepers”. college working closely with a www.the-gtc.co.uk BIGGA Section! and quality programme including Rob Dunn, Head of www.greenkeepertraining.com assessment and verification for Land-based and Food since the Level 2 & 3 apprenticeships joining the College in October The Duchy College contact is were developed. The aim was for 2014 commented “the focus of Sarah Chafer, 01209 722111 [email protected] the college provision to follow the team in actively engaging You can follow the GTC on the National Occupational with the local Greenkeepers Twitter @TheOfficialGTC

66 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd OVER 120 EXHIBITORS FROM ACROSS THE INDUSTRY

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@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 67 BUYERS’ GUIDE To advertise contact James on 01347 833 832 or email [email protected]

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68 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd ALL WEATHER SURFACES CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY WANTED TURF

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@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 69 Recruitment

FULL TIME EXPERIENCED, WELL-QUALIFIED GREEN KEEPER / GROUNDSMAN required for private stunning 4 acre site in Wimbledon/Kingston area working alongside two existing staff (all non-resident).

PERFECT OPPORTUNITY for an enthusiastic, versatile, committed, self-motivated, groundsman to continue to develop these exceptionally varied grounds (grass tennis court, volleyball, croquet Turfcare Equipment your etc and different lawns at different levels) over the long term. Advertise MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES To prepare and maintain lawns, tennis courts, sports turf and golf greens as well as artificial surfaces / Working with various types of machinery and equipment / Undertaking general maintenance of equipment. EXPERIENCE Previous experience as a Groundsman/Greenkeeper / Understanding and recruitment here performing annual turf maintenance schedule / A full understanding of field markings / Knowledge and experience of working with synthetic surfaces / The ability to work well as part of a team / A flexible, committed and enthusiastic approach to work. Must be able to work without supervision and prioritise work load according to fixture lists and weather conditions. Relevant qualification in turf management (NVQ or similar). Spraying certificate is desirable. Full, clean driving licence. ... and online START DATE: ASAP.

PLEASE NOTE Any offer of employment will be subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and medical clearance.

at www.bigga.co.uk/careers Please send email application, plus qualifications plus experience and general details to from £595 +vat Becky Francis [email protected] for and 1/8 advert Contact Jill Rodham on Fulwell Golf Club – Head Greenkeeper We are looking for an ambitious Head Greenkeeper who will work 01347 833812 under the direction of our Head of Golf Course Development. They should have the desire and ambition to help drive through these changes, whilst maintaining the course to the highest standards for our members and guests.

To be considered for the role the applicant should have the following: • NVQ Level 3 in Greenkeeping or equivalent (essential) • Current UK driving license (essential) • PA1, 2 and 6a spraying certificates (essential) • Relevant IT Skills (essential) • Irrigation experience including repair and maintenance (desirable) • CS 30 and 31 chainsaw certificates (desirable) • Good working knowledge of fine turf machinery (desirable) • Construction experience (desirable)

Remuneration will be based on skill level and experience. Accommodation will be available with the role.

To apply, please forward your covering letter and C.V. to Greg Evans MG at: [email protected] Closing Date: 16th October 2015

Turf & Amenity Technical Area Sales Manager Southern England

About you Due to the continued growth of our business, we are looking for a high-calibre If you’re the person we’re individual to join our expanding turf and amenity team in this exciting role covering the South of England, primarily London, Surrey and Hertfordshire, looking for: (however specific counties are flexible and can be agreed depending on the We offer a substantial benefits package including: candidates experience and location). With exemplary technical and sales skills and a proven background within our Competitive salary plus bonus industry, the ideal candidate will relish the opportunity to deliver first-class Company car technical and sales support to end-users and distributors of our range of fertilizers, 26 days annual leave plant protection products and grass seeds. You will be highly-motivated and able to hit the ground running, developing the customer base in your area and driving Contributory pension scheme The Baroness LM2700 fairway mower new initiatives. You will also be IT literate and have excellent interpersonal skills, Subsidised private medical and engaging confidently and professionally with people in a range of environments. dental insurance Detailed knowledge of turf management practices and an industry-recognised qualification, such as BASIS/ FACTS and/or a HND/BSc in a relevant discipline, Excellent development and career For more than 100 years the Kyoeisha Co. of Japan has been To find out how you too can benefit from the is preferable, as is a comprehensive understanding of the marketplace in your opportunities that come with being making first-class, high quality, user friendly machinery for its remarkable cost savings experienced by designated area. There will be a requirement for flexible working and spending part of a global business customers. Since late 2007 customers in the U.K. have been owning a Baroness mower, call or e-mail for time away from home on occasion. To apply, please send a résumé and sharing in that experience, finding out just how low the whole your demonstration today! About us application letter to: Matthew Hart, Senior life service costs of Baroness mowers can be! You will know our brands, but you might not realise the strength of the business HR Manager, Everris Ltd, Boulby Mine, Loftus, behind them. Everris® is an ICL Specialty Fertilizers Company, part of the ICL Saltburn, Cleveland, TS13 4UZ or email the e-mail: [email protected] group that employs more than 12,000 people globally. We are world-leaders in the same to [email protected] ornamental horticulture, turf and amenity, and specialty agricultural sectors. Our market-leading brands – including Sierrablen, Greenmaster, SierraformGT tel: 01256 461591 and Sportsmaster are used and trusted by turf professionals around the world. Our team is passionate about optimising plant and turf performance. We are a customer-orientated organisation and take great pride in the integrity and precision of our world-class product portfolios, and our commitment to research Kyoeisha UK Ltd. a subsidiary of and development has resulted in the development of unique technologies which Kyoeisha Co. Ltd. of Japan have transformed the way turf is managed. www.baronessuk.com

70 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd MS022 ICL_REC ADVERT_artwork_185x130_SE.indd 1 18/09/2015 12:33 Turfcare Equipment

The Baroness LM2700 fairway mower

For more than 100 years the Kyoeisha Co. of Japan has been To find out how you too can benefit from the making first-class, high quality, user friendly machinery for its remarkable cost savings experienced by customers. Since late 2007 customers in the U.K. have been owning a Baroness mower, call or e-mail for sharing in that experience, finding out just how low the whole your demonstration today! life service costs of Baroness mowers can be!

e-mail: [email protected] tel: 01256 461591

Kyoeisha UK Ltd. a subsidiary of www.baronessuk.com Kyoeisha Co. Ltd. of Japan Recruitment

ASSISTANT GREENKEEPER Assistant Greenkeeper - Rookery Park Golf Club, Suffolk

Established in 1920 Thorndon Park is a prestigious members club and is situated in Essex We are seeking to recruit a highly motivated and enthusiastic Assistant Greenkeeper to join our 10 minutes from J29 on the M25. Applicants will be working under direction from the Head experienced team. He/she will be involved in the daily presentation of the parkland golf course, Greenkeeper and Deputy Head Greenkeeper and is able to demonstrate positive and assertive project work and all other aspects of turf maintenance. The ideal candidate will need to possess skills and to be able to lead by example to carry on the high standards that are required. the following qualifications, experience and skills: • 2 years minimum greenkeeping experience The following qualification skills held by the candidate will be an advantage:– • Qualified to NVQ level 2 in Amenity Sportsturf or equivalent • NVQ level 2, aspiring to do level 3 • PA1, PA2 & PA6 spraying certificates • Up to date spraying and Chainsaw certificates • The ability to work individually and as part of a team • Knowledge of Health and Safety regulations • A flexible approach to work as early starts and weekend work is required • Knowledge of irrigation systems • Reliable and hardworking with excellent presentation skills and attention to detail • Good communication skills • A positive attitude with good time management and communication skills • Good turf management • Preferred but not essential qualities include: • Chainsaw certificates This is an excellent opportunity for the right person to work closely with the green keeping team • A good understanding of the game of golf and further their skills and training. We have a very motivated team that aspire to high standards In return a competitive salary will be offered along with BIGGA membership, staff uniform, and good team moral. Salary negotiable depending on experience and qualifications. restaurant discount card and Club contribution pension scheme.

Please apply in writing or email together with C.V to Applications, including a CV and covering letter should be sent to: Head Greenkeeper, Robert George, Thorndon Park Golf Club Mark Henderson, Head Greenkeeper, Rookery Park Golf Club, Beccles Road, Carlton Colville, Ingrave, Brentwood, Essex CM13 3RH or [email protected] Closing date: 17.10.2015 Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 8HJ Or e-mail: [email protected]

Head Greenkeeper ~ Farrington Park GC Greenkeeper/ Mechanic Farrington Park Golf Club is a busy 27 hole proprietary club complete with a driving range and extensive practice facilities. Within 20 minutes’ drive of Bath and Bristol, the business includes a large Strathaven Golf Club, South Lanarkshire clubhouse with bar and restaurant, function rooms and a health and fitness club. The Role - An opportunity exits to join this forward looking team to help to further develop the already high standard of the golf courses. Reporting to the Director, the Head Greenkeeper is one of four key Strathaven Golf Club are looking for an individual to take management roles at the club, with full responsibility for maintaining the golf courses and all other areas of the site to a high standard. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated individual with strong responsibility for the day-to-day maintenance and upkeep of all interpersonal skills, a passion for green keeping and high personal standards. our ground care machinery, therefore the ideal candidate will The Individual To be considered for the role you should have the following qualifications and attributes: possess a level 3 or above in land based technology/engineering. NVQ Level 3 in Green-keeping or equivalent / PA1, 2 and 6 spraying certificates / The ability to lead, motivate and develop a team / Be an excellent team player with strong communication and customer service skills / Irrigation repair and maintenance experience / Excellent practical skills including some building work and technical knowledge relating to machinery maintenance / Good understanding of The successful candidate will be required to: Health & Safety relating to golf course operations / Working knowledge of Outlook, Word & Excel / A first aid qualification would also be an advantage / Flexibility is vital for this full time five out of seven Possess an in depth knowledge of hydraulic systems, electrical day a week role, and will include weekend working. circuits, fabrication, cylinder grinding and unit set-up / Exhibit a We offer free golf or gym membership as well as 28 days holiday (including bank holidays) and free uniform. Remuneration will be based on skill level and experience. Please note that accommodation is strong knowledge of Health & Safety requirements / Demonstrate not available with the role. a strong understanding of the latest amenity equipment and the How to Apply: Please send a cover letter and CV to Jon Cowgill, Director, Farrington Park, Marsh Lane, Farrington Gurney, Bristol or email to [email protected] ability to analyse how their performance affects playing surfaces / Closing Date: 30th November 2015 Present effective ideas that will help improve the efficiency of the golf course maintenance operation / Keep accurate maintenance logs and service records.

The ideal candidate will: Have at least 3 years’ experience as an amenity mechanic / Proven practical Greenkeeping experience / Level 3 or above in land based technology/engineering / Basic your IT skills / A knowledge and understanding of the game of golf is Advertise desirable.

recruitment here Salary negotiable according to experience and qualifications (in line with BIGGA recommendations)

... and online Applications with CV and covering letter can be made via e-mail to [email protected] or posted to: Ian F Neil, General Manager, Strathaven G.C, Overton Avenue, Glasgow Road, Strathaven ML10 6NR at www.bigga.co.uk/careers CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS 11th October 2015 from £595 +vat for and 1/8 advert Contact Jill Rodham on Loch Lomond Golf Club 01347 833812 Mechanic

Closing date: 23 October, 2015 Location: Loch Lomond Golf Club, Dunbartonshire

Reporting to the Equipment Manager, we are seeking an experienced, dedicated and professional individual, required to use their own initiative and judgement on a daily basis. The role will include maintenance and repair to an extensive fleet of golf course maintenance equipment.

Enjoy a fantastic a benefits package including uniform, gratuities, meals, golf, spa and social clubs. For more information about Loch Lomond Golf Club and the role please visit our recruitment website www.lochlomondrecruitment.com To apply you should send your cover letter and CV to Mary Danielsen GCM Office Manager at [email protected] detailing why you should be considered for this position.

72 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd Recruitment

The Royal Sydney Golf Club Assistant Greenkeeper Workshop Manager Brampton Heath is a progressive 27 hole golf centre with both a The Royal Sydney Golf Club is one of A thorough understanding and experience with Australia’s most prestigious golf clubs. It petrol, diesel and electric powered equipment, thriving membership and pay and play customers. The course is provides a supportive workplace that values the proper methods of servicing golf course/ known for the quality of the playing surfaces throughout and regular hard work, talent, enthusiasm and respect for or similar equipment and the repair and traditions. adjustment of power mowing equipment course improvements. Previous experience managing staff and the What will I be doing? training of staff on equipment The successful applicant will need to be able to work as a team member The Workshop Manager reports directly to Sound record keeping skills the Course Superintendent. Under the Course Strong oral and written communication skills but also be able to follow their own initiative. Superintendent’s supervision, the Workshop Ability to maintain a clean and safe work Full driving licence required. Manager directs and participates in the environment operation, management and maintenance of Working knowledge of the hazards and safety Some experience necessary. Further training towards qualifications is the Workshop to ensure the maintenance of the precautions of the profession available for the right candidate. equipment is performed to the highest standard. Previous Turf Equipment Experience (Desirable) Weekend work by rota. Good Salary plus overtime. The key tasks include: Benefits Managing the day to day operations of the Competitive salary Workshop Access to training and development Please reply to [email protected] with CV and covering letter. Allocating tasks to direct reports, ensure project Daily staff meals goals are achieved to a high standard and all Access to sporting facilities work is carried out efficiently Discounts on wine, sporting goods Managing machinery training for all staff to Uniforms ensure that staff are trained on machinery before use About The Royal Sydney Golf Club Supervising and training direct reports to The Royal Sydney Golf Club is a private Greenkeeper - Corfu Golf Club, Corfu, Greece ensure duties are carried out safely, to a high members club which was founded in 1893. It standard and in an efficient manner is recognised nationally and internationally for Well qualified and experienced Greenkeeper required for a mature 18-hole golf course (since Record keeping its world class facilities which include two golf 1971) with full responsibility to maintain the course and all areas of the site to a high standard. Conducting stock takes courses, 17 tennis courts, bowling greens, Assisting with the preparation of annual croquet lawns, a squash court, a gym, two Working (sometimes personally) with various types of machinery and equipment operating and capital budgets pools, several cafés, a fine dining restaurant, Understanding and performing annual turf maintenance Managing expenditure to ensure set budgets for accommodation rooms and multiple function Irrigation repair and maintenance are being adhered to rooms. Practical skills and technical knowledge relating to machinery maintenance Managing live storeroom stock levels Work without supervision and prioritise work load according to fixture lists and weather conditions Ensuring E-Par EMS and other Sportsturf While upholding the important traditions of the Team player with strong communication and customer service skills management programs are followed Club, all staff members are encouraged to strive This is a full-time position and sponsorship will for constant innovation, excellence, leadership be considered for the right candidate. and enjoyment in all they do. Benefits: What does the Club need from me? A two bedroom villa with paid expenses next to the Club House A mechanical qualification How do I apply? Staff lunch for 7 months Possession of a valid driver’s license, possibly a commercial driver’s license (CDL) If you are interested in the role and would Application stating qualifications, experience, general details and a recent photo to Member of the Motor Vehicle Industry Repair like to join our team, please view the Careers [email protected] Council Section of The Royal Sydney Golf Club website. Experience managing a workshop and Closing: 13th October 2015 equipment fleet Website: www.corfugolfclub.com

require an Assistant Head Greenkeeper Head Greenkeeper Horton Park Golf Club The ideal applicant will possess the following attributes and qualifications: Horton Park Golf Club is a busy 27 hole complex in Epsom with a • Minimum 5 years’ experience Driving Range, Footgolf and Adventure Golf courses. • Minimum NVQ Level 3 • PA1, 2, 6 (Spraying) • Flexible and able to work at weekends when required Reporting directly to the proprietor, the Head Greenkeeper has full • Excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to communicate with members responsibility for maintaining the golf courses and other areas of the as well as colleagues • Self-motivated, but with strong time management skills site to a high standard. The ideal candidate will be well motivated with • A strong work ethic and ability work as part of a team and as an individual strong interpersonal skills, a passion for green keeping and high personal • Flexible annual working hours • Full driving license standards. Please forward a C.V. along with a covering letter to: The Club Remuneration will be based on skill level and experience. Secretary, Cherry Lodge Golf Club, Jail Lane, Biggin Hill, Kent, TN16 3AX To apply, please go to www.hortonpark.com/careers for a full job description and application form. Alternatively, please send via email to [email protected] ‘Greenkeeper Vacancy’ as the subject line. Closing date for all applications is Monday 12th October 2015 Closing Date: 9th October 2015

Nelson Golf Club Assistant Greenkeeper Nelson Golf Club is a private members club situated in East Lancashire and 5 minutes Advertise your from Junction 12 of the M65. Working under the Course Manager or deputy you will be responsible to ensure the course and practice facilities are maintained in a first class playing condition, completed within timescales and to budget. Candidates should have: recruitment here • Minimum of 3 years golf course Greenkeeping experience • Level 2 NVQ or above ... and online • Knowledge of Health and Safety regulations • Preferably hold current spraying and chainsaw certificates for one month • A flexible approach to working patterns • Be able to work without supervision and within a small team at www.bigga.co.uk/careers This is an excellent opportunity for the successful candidate from £595 +vat for an 1/8 advert to further develop their green keeping career. The salary is negotiable depending upon experience and qualifications. Contact Jill Rodham on Closing date: Friday 23rd October 2015 Please apply with CV & covering letter providing a brief summary of your reasons for application to: 01347 833812 Richard M Lees Business Manager Nelson Golf Club Kings Causeway Brierfield Nelson Lancashire BB9 0EU or [email protected]

@BIGGALtd OCTOBER 2015 GI 73 @BIGGALtd A new page featuring the best Tweets and pics from the industry – don’t forget to tag @BIGGALtd to give yourself a chance of being featured!

Our favourite tweets this month... @GKdavid_s Proud to be apart of the Young greenkeeper committee @BIGGALtd #Representingtheyouth

‏@GKdavid_s Thanks for the selfie @leshowkins #takeleswithyou @BIGGALtd #croppedversion #TSGOTY @kevodale76 All systems go this morning @MuswellHillGC as the @GKdavid_s greenstaff emerge from the mist @GKdavid_s #realgreenkeeping @BIGGALtd @avrogreenkeeper Our very own Sandra Raper @ BIGGALtd helping out with green construction at Whitley Bay GC @broadstonegc @BIGGALtd @the_iog nice morning for it! orange thing in sky back again! @plestee There seems to be something at the bottom of the rainbows! #stoneham

@paulseverngolf The guys are battling through the weather @SimpsonCupGB @ SimpsonCupUSA @OnCourseCharity @kevodale76 Royal St Georges @avrogreenkeeper @gavinwhiteNI Ballymoney, Northern Ireland Very honoured that I get to use this @striturf can’t wait for the data set to come back @greenkeepingire @ BIGGALtd @TheToroCompany “The only thing that has lasted longer is my wife...” #snowblower #MyToroStory http://toro. biz/6013BKHUl

@daire_paddy Getting that Fescue down today @CARNELINKS Links Revolution @Greentech_Ltd @BarenbrugUK @greenkeepingire @BIGGALtd

@broadstonegc @broadstonegc

74 GI OCTOBER 2015 @BIGGALtd Trusted by the best courses on earth. Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club, England

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