ROYAL CINQUE PORTS How a Culture of Personal Development Is Bringing the Good Times Back to the Kent Coast

December 2019 | £5.50

ROYAL CINQUE PORTS How a culture of personal development is bringing the good times back to the Kent coast

IN THIS ISSUE: Confessions of a greens chairman | BTME preview Bunker renovations at Huddersfield | BIGGA merchandise BIGGA Photographic Competition finalists | Employment law ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Welcome | From your association

BIGGA Patron Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE B IGGA President Welcome Chris Sheehan

B IGGA Chairman Scott Reeves

BIGGA Vice President Collin Webber

BIGGA Board Members Stuart Taylor, Anthony McGeough, Andrew Laing, Tom Smith (Vice Chairman), Jaime Acton, George Barr, Chris Sealey

BIGGA Chief Executive Officer Jim Croxton | [email protected]

Head of Finance and Operations Steve Wragg | [email protected]

Head of Membership Services Tracey Maddison | [email protected]

The official monthly magazine of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association Limited.

Editorial The BIGGA team looks forward to seeing you at BTME in 2020 Editor Karl Hansell Tel – 01347 833 829 In November I was privileged agree more; we now have [email protected] to be asked to speak once legal and HR helplines for this a @karlhansell again at the Golf Club very reason but unfortunately Managers Association’s not every member takes Production excellent biennial conference. advantage and also not every De sign & Artwork PEDESTRIAN Production I always jump at the greenkeeper is a member of GREENS MOWER Libbie Waddleton Tel – 01347 833 817 chance to engage with golf BIGGA. It’s an interesting and [email protected] club managers and officials, as perhaps controversial article the relationship between but that is exactly what we them and our members is want from this section of the Sales Chief Executive Jim Croxton

B usiness absolutely critical for all magazine. The Excellence in THE HIGHEST QUALITY OF CUT IN THE INDUSTRY. Development Manager parties and for the success of Communication Awards Lauren Frazer I am of Tel – 01347 833 832 golf clubs. I have now sponsored by Campey Turf Baroness walk behind cylinder mowers are built to provide the highest quality finish on all fine turf areas. Golf Greens [email protected] a @Lauren_BIGGA attended five GCMA course Care Systems are there to and Tees, Bowling Greens, Tennis Courts and Cricket Pitches. Completely gear driven, Baroness mowers are easier to conferences and have seen encourage more and more maintain and more durable than mowers with other drive systems such as belts or chains. B usiness Development Executive both the delegates and the confident that our greenkeepers to express their Gavin Rees programme evolve views to their peers as well as Tel – 01347 833 810 [email protected] significantly over the years. members will rise to their customers and LIMITED OFFER: This year’s event focussed to the challenge. members. I’m really looking heavily on governance and forward to seeing who Printing culture in the golf club, both weather concerns, work emerges as the Award winners Warners Midlands Plc, The Maltings, Manor 5 YEAR Lane, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH key areas that have a huge pressures etc. I took two key next month at BTME. WITH A Tel – 01778 391 000 impact on greenkeepers. messages from the session; This decade may well go Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission. It was perhaps though a we’re not alone in feeling down as one of the most WARRANTY Return postage must accompany all little surprising to see a pressure and more needs to challenging our industry has PER MONTH, FOR 5 YEARS* materials submitted if return is requested. No £99 responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited keynote presentation from a continue to be done to reduce faced and it’s a reasonably materials. The right is reserved to edit submissions before publication. golf club manager on mental work related stress in the safe bet that the 2020s will Although every care will be taken, no health. In recent years we industry. continue to challenge us all, I responsibility is accepted for loss of manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Opinions have discussed this topic a As mentioned before, golf am of course confident that Contact your local dealer to arrange demo – expressed are not necessarily those of the www.baronessuk.com Association, and no responsibility is accepted great deal in relation to club governance and culture our members will rise to the for such content, advertising or product greenkeepers but it was the are important to this, but so is challenge. information that August appear. Circulation is by subscription. Subscription rate: UK £50 per first time I have seen it greenkeeper education and Finally on behalf of the year, Europe and Eire £65, Rest of the World KYOEISHA UK. LTD. £95. The magazine is also distributed to BIGGA addressed so publicly by development. In this month’s whole BIGGA team may I wish @baronessuk Like us on Facebook members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf industry, libraries and central government. another section of the magazine our ‘Thought all of our members, industry. Of real interest was Leadership’ piece expresses commercial partners and ADDRESS: TEL: EMAIL: Unit 5 Hatch Industrial Park, Greywell Road, Basingstoke, RG24 7NG 01256 461591 [email protected] just how similar the issues the strong view that friends a very Happy *Subject to final credit approval and status. E&OE. This promotion is offered for business users only and applicants must be 18 years or over. Promotion based on new equipment and will be subject to a 5 year described were to those we greenkeepers also need to be Christmas and I look forward Hire Purchase agreement. Under HP, the full value of VAT will be payable together with the first payment and a document fee of £90. At the end of the agreement, as long as all payments have been made, ISSN: 0961– 6977 an option-to-purchase fee of £60 plus vat will be taken with the final payment and you will then own the equipment. This promotion is valid until January 31st 2020 unless it is withdrawn earlier. Alternative hear from our own members; informed of their rights under to seeing you all at BTME in © 2019 British and International Golf finance options are available that may include spreading the VAT over the term of the agreement and seasonal or deferred payments – please enquire for details of these options. Terms and Conditions apply Greenkeepers Association Limited unreasonable expectations, employment law. I couldn’t Harrogate in the New Year. to all promotions and are subject to change. Not available in ROI. This promotion is offered and arranged by Baroness Equipment Financing which is a recognised trading style of WestWon Limited, 18 Manor Courtyard, Hughenden Avenue, High Wycombe, HP13 5RE. Registered in England No. 5282535. FCA Licence No. 738235 @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 3 From your association | What’s inside ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// What’s inside | From your association WHAT’S INSIDE… Editor’s With thanks to Notes our contributors Each month Greenkeeper International is Greenkeeper put together with the help of our industry International contributors. This month we have editor, Karl Hansell features from:

Merry Christmas and welcome to Andy Wight December’s Greenkeeper International. The Oaklands At a time when we consume media in College tutor more ways than ever, I’d like to start my asks whether your final editor’s column of the year by training structure thanking you for your continued support needs developing of this magazine. Each month we work to get the most out hard to give you a magazine that is both of your staff? informative and entertaining and as I enter my fourth year with the association, I’m struck at how quickly time is passing. James Bledge I’d like to think Greenkeeper James discusses International is in as good shape as it has how mentors have ever been and that we’re moving with the helped his career times, blurring the boundaries between and how he’s our print and digital offerings. The Taking a closer look at the bunker at Huddersfield Golf Club on passing on that page 48 feedback we receive is always welcome wisdom to the next and, I’m pleased to say, usually positive. generation. But we’re always looking for ways to From your Association Points of Interest Features utilise these pages better and if you do Seton Wakenshaw have ideas on how we can improve the magazine, please get in touch. Welcome Looking ahead Talking points Durabunker How a positive For the record, I once wrote a monthly 03 An association update from 14 Get involved with a BIGGA 06 How aware are you of 52 How the apprentices got on at relationship magazine with articles written entirely to CEO Jim Croxton event near you employment law and is it Littlehampton’s ‘bunker camp’ between the the tune of popular Christmas Carols, so holding you back? course manager College Listings believe me, this is a constant learning Across the Board Sherriff Amenity and greens Meet the industry’s leading experience and we’ve all made mistakes We hear from Rushmore 24 Royal Cinque Ports Making the shift from ootballF chairman helped 10 training providers 54 that we later regret! course manager Jaime Acton 26 A look at the team behind the groundsman to greenkeeper Whitley Bay thrive. Christmas and the New Year are historic Kent links Around the Green quickly forgotten in these parts as Young Greenkeeper’s Baroness Your regional and national William Swan January sees the hosting of BTME. In this Committee 58 Confessions of a Greens Passing the test at Purley 12 member news 56 magazine we feature a conversation I had What’s happening at the YGC 32 Chairman Downs GC The golf course with James Bledge at Royal Cinque Ports Conference this year? Meet Whitley Bay’s former architect tells us Industry News about how he’s encouraging a culture of greens chairman who ‘gets it’ the three roles of What’s happening in the What are your talking points? personal development at the club. It’s a Membership 66 bunkers and how greenkeeping industry? they’re more than timely message, given our proximity to 16 Add this BIGGA merchandise BTME preview Have you got a great idea or are you just an expensive the industry’s largest programme of to your Christmas list 36 A look at some of the pushing the boundaries of what hazard to maintain. professional learning, Continue to Learn. exhibitors who will be heading you can achieve through innovative Competition for jobs is tougher than Learning and Development Useful information to BTME 2020 next month thinking or methods? We’re looking ever and, unlike Old Saint Nick, most of 18 Meet the Continue to Learn for your stories and have some us aren’t blessed with job security for life. speaker: Michael Astrop Insight with Syngenta incredible prizes on offer. To get I recently saw a statistic that said 75% Buyers’ Guide 44 Understanding how reducing involved, turn to page six. of all job postings are filled by candidates Around the Globe 70 Useful contacts for all your pathogen numbers is crucial Don’t forget you can download the who were already known to the employer 64 The Scandinavian, Denmark greenkeeping needs to avoiding poor turf quality regular and dyslexia‑friendly through networking. Whether it’s BTME digital versions of Greenkeeper or another networking event organised by Ecology Recruitment Bunker Design International from the resources the association, make 2020 the year you 74 James Hutchinson gives his 72 The latest vacancies to help 46 The importance of bunkers section of the BIGGA website. invest in yourself. regular sustainability update you advance your career with architect William Swan

4 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 5 Features | Are we victims of employment naivety? //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Are we victims of employment naivety? | Features

Every month my issue of Greenkeeper had no place where members trod. His managers; and that course managers and screams, of discontent from the members International falls through my letterbox solution was to hire a limousine, park it in greenkeepers in general are not (in some who demand their course looks like the and every month I read the pages so full the car park, and use it as his own cases) treated with respect by club one on television ‑ and the inevitable Are we victims of positivity, industry progress, personal clubhouse. When The Open managers or committees. And perhaps result is that the greens need to be faster, achievements and success. went to Royal Troon in 1923, he was there is an underlying cause. Every time the fairways need to be cut four times a There are golf clubs all over the similarly barred from the clubhouse and we see coverage of tournament golf, week, the bunkers need to be edged country where a balance has been found so when he finished as runner‑up he courses are maintained and finished to again, the tees need to be divoted more between the needs of the members and refused to attend the prize‑giving astonishingly high standards with barely often, the ditches need to be strimmed of employment the management requirements of a 21st ceremony – which was held in the a blade of grass or a grain of sand out of ad infinitum – but all with little, or no, century golf course and at these clubhouse. He invited the organisers to place, leading to ever‑higher extra resources. And who will do all this enlightened clubs, both members and the local pub where he had been staying expectations from the club golfer. It’s not extra work? Yes, the greenkeepers at the greenkeepers are happy. But there is a and said he would be happy to receive quite Augusta Syndrome, but it is not far bottom of the hierarchal triangle. hidden problem which lurks near, or at, his prize there. They declined. from it. Consequently, standards are being naivety? the surface of many greenkeepers’ lives. Through his prominent position in the So the course manager or the general driven ever‑higher without, in some It is a problem which is rarely mentioned world of golf and by his refusal to be manager or the committee (or all of them) cases, an earnest commitment to improve Why a lack of understanding about employment and for which there seems no solution: down‑trodden, Walter Hagen almost have to absorb the mutterings, or resources. There are, we reluctantly and that the professional status of single‑handedly lifted the status of the honestly have to admit, cases where law is holding greenkeepers back greenkeepers is being undermined and professional golfer to a position worthy of course managers have taken their eye off that greenkeepers are not treated with great respect. This leads nicely into the Employees in any the ball or where the greenkeeping team Richard Andrews professional respect. central subject of this piece: the lack of has become complacent. In these In 1920 Walter Hagen, the flamboyant respect for greenkeepers. workplace will be instances where an overhaul of working American golfer, arrived at The Open at I visit many golf courses and speak to more productive when practices is required, standards should be Royal Cinque Ports to be told that he was many greenkeepers and have concluded raised easily. However, changes in Do you have a topic that you’d like to discuss? not allowed in the clubhouse. Such was that there is a double‑edged problem: they feel valued and part management structure or personnel can Submit your article to [email protected] to the lot of professional golfers who were at that greenkeepers are not (in some cases) lead to a wholly unnecessary revolution be in with a chance of winning a week in Florida! that time viewed as glorified caddies who treated with respect by their course of the organisation in a drive to raise standards: incoming »

general managers become the de facto At another club, in an effort to There is a great and urgent need to fill course managers and consultants dictate increase output, greenstaff were asked to the gap – to teach greenkeepers that policy, the course managers become increase their working hours without they have rights and that management puppets with negligible policy input and additional pay. Again, most of the have boundaries which should not be the greenkeepers are regarded with greenkeepers agreed to such an crossed. Without turning humble and disdain and mistrust. Can we see respect appalling request but not all of them dedicated greenkeepers into radical in these circumstances? were ignorant of employment law and so militants who refuse to cooperate in a Naturally, it makes sense to ensure the request and the resulting change of reasonable way, we need to educate Tough, that greenkeepers are fully motivated, as contract were refused. them in a way which reinforces their motivated staff are more productive and Yet another employer made a motivation and enables them to be take greater pride in their work. It is not particular arrangement with an employee respected by their employer. There is no dependable, necessary to list factors which contribute whose annual leave was less than his doubt that a collaborative approach by to motivation (we all know what these legal entitlement: the employer was all parties in the workplace yields the factors are) and it should be a simple clearly breaking the law. best results, but employment problems process for managers to ensure staff are There are many greenkeepers who fell multiply where collaboration fails. BIGGA and built fully engaged. Fundamental to this is a into the profession through playing golf has a prominent magazine and website sense of belonging, and employees in and most clubs appear to have an and these could be used as a platform to any workplace will be more productive arrangement which permits their teach greenkeepers basic employment to last. when they feel valued and part of the greenkeepers to play golf. However, there law. Seminars and workshops at BTME? organisation for which they are are an abundance of stories telling how Why ever not? employed. However, it is increasingly management have restricted their The industry should be open and demonstrable in greenkeeping that greenkeepers’ use of the course and in honest enough to acknowledge that managers are forgoing motivational many cases, this amounts to a change of there is a significant problem which strategies and resorting to different, employment contract. Changes in needs to be tackled. Every effort should undesirable tactics to increase contract should be bilateral, as in they be made to promote the status of the productivity. should be agreed by both parties to the greenkeeper (as Walter Hagen did for A while ago I heard a dispiriting story contract. Ignorance of the law prevails professional golfers) to the managers and from a golf club. Management had asked and the golfing greenkeeper whose committees who run our golf clubs, but all the greenkeepers to sign up to a new access to the course is restricted feels greenkeepers must also strengthen their payment arrangement that would include aggrieved and helpless. own positions. Employment law is overtime (rather than overtime being paid In all the cases above, employees are incredibly complex but there are some in addition to basic salary) and, they said, left without a sense of belonging and very rudimentary principles – and would make no material difference to without motivation. It is likely that greenkeepers everywhere should learn their terms and conditions. Although productivity will decrease and this could about them now. sceptical, and without knowing too much logically lead to additional management about employment law, the greenkeepers demands: thus, a very clear downward agreed to the new arrangement. Before spiral is created. long, those greenkeepers were forced to To quote Jim Croxton in the August work extra overtime for which they were 2019 edition of Greenkeeper not paid. International, “we have had an ever‑increasing number of members suffering under poor management”, so So you have an this problem is finding its way to greater prominence. The Human Resources article to feature? Helpline set up by BIGGA is a lifeline for Submit an article or nominate put‑upon greenkeepers, but there is still any BIGGA member(s) email a significant gap in that most [email protected] greenkeepers are unaware of their basic rights and think that the employer can change terms and conditions on a whim. Who will reach for the telephone when they feel that their employer is acting unreasonably? Only the few, while the rest will go about their work grumbling and begrudgingly.

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RTVX900_210x297_Greenkeeper.indd 1 19/11/2019 16:56 From your association | Across the Board ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ACROSS HELPING US THE BOARD TO HELP YOU BIGGA’s Partner Programme aims to provide an array of Jaime Acton | Course Manager | Rushmore career enhancing and defining opportunities for our members. Through their relationship with BIGGA, the This month feels like the end of an era leading companies in the industry are able to support our for me personally as I will be stepping away from a formal role within the members through education, initiatives and awareness. association after being involved with various BIGGA committees for the past 14 years or so. BTME 2020 marks the completion of my three-year term as a member of the National Board and the time feels right to allow someone else the opportunity to make their mark upon the association. As I leave my role as representative for the South West & South Wales Region, I know I leave behind a strong board and that the association is in safe hands. When deliberating about whether to take up a second term on the Board, I had With some over-affectionate section members at The Open 2017 to think long and hard about myself and something about it and become more leveller and believe me, I never thought the role moving forward. active within the association. this introverted, normal greenkeeper Firstly, from a personal level, I’ve been I’ve loved my time on committees, from Somerset would ever find himself on involved at committee level with BIGGA whether it was my stints with the South the association’s Board of Directors! for as long as I’ve had children and West Section and the South Coast I’ve met some great friends through perhaps it was time to simplify my life. Section, to my involvement on Regional this industry and through my Secondly, from a professional level, Board, eventually leading to my time as a involvement with the association, would BIGGA and its members honestly National Board member. whether that’s through Open Volunteer get the best of me if I stayed another Ironically, it all started with me being Support Teams back in the early to three years? I felt they wouldn’t. negative and having a rant about the mid-2000’s to my selection on the Anyone that knows me, knows I have a committee members not leading from BIGGA Delegation to the Golf Industry strong opinion on what I believe to be the front when discussing attendance Show in 2012. And yes, I was one of those right and wrong in life. I try hard to bring numbers at a Section AGM! It was at this who used to negatively believe I was my children up to have the confidence to point that someone politely asked if wasting my time in applying as I’d never speak up for things they believe in and perhaps I would consider taking up a role purchased any grinders! that’s what I genuinely feel I have done in if I felt that strongly about it, so I did! So, my parting message is this: please my time involved in BIGGA. I started greenkeeping when I left support the association wherever you I sometimes read the opinions of the school in 1995 and in that time BIGGA can. If you really want to make a keyboard warriors, some of whom take has played a massive part in my career difference, then get involved. Nothing is a great delight in slamming the association development, as well as my personal closed shop and the experiences you can and the profession at every turn. It’s so development. It’s a little known fact about have are truly rewarding. easy to be negative, in fact, that it feels me that I am extremely introverted and There are a great many people who more and more like negativity is have always had some anxiety issues have given up their time over the years becoming society’s default setting! around social situations. I’ve learnt, and I am just another one of those guys. But if you’re genuinely passionate mainly through my involvement with I did it because I feel passionately enough to make an argument, then really BIGGA, to push myself and take myself about many issues affecting our industry. the only way you’ll ever make a positive out of my comfort zone. If you feel the same and want to make difference to that subject matter is by I believe shyness is a curse as it is a difference, a good starting point is by getting involved! It’s easy to criticise often misdiagnosed by others, who getting involved with your Section The support we receive from our Partners is critical in providing the significant series of benefits open others on social media; it’s something mistake it for arrogance! committee. entirely different to actually do I have found our industry to be a great Who knows where it can take you. to our members. Head to www.bigga.org.uk to find out more and to get involved.

10 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd From your association | Young Greenkeeper’s Committee /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// YOUNG GREENKEEPERS’ CalMag COMMITTEE Jack Hetherington and Stuart Imeson | Hosts | Young Greenkeepers’ Conference Designed to supplement Calcium & Magnesium The Young Greenkeepers’ Conference was started three levels for immediate turf years ago by the Young Greenkeepers’ Committee (YGC) in the hope that it colour, quality and turf would be a good environment for those who are new to the health responses. industry to network, while receiving education specifically targeted to their needs. For 2020, the YGC asked founding members Jack Hetherington and Stuart Imeson to host this Young Greenkeepers Conference at BTME. We spoke to Jack and Stuart to find out what they have planned. The speakers have been Boosts turf colour and quality It’s a very daunting prospect, selected because they are hosting the conference as it is a relatable and relevant to Supplements Calcium and large part of the reason we both young greenkeepers. We will Magnesium levels joined the YGC and therefore hear how different approaches its continued success is can be used in the industry Especially useful on sand based important to us both. That’s and cover some of the constructions why we couldn’t say no, but the fundamentals of Integrated thought of standing up in front Pest Management. We’ll also Highly compatible tank-mix partner of 100 people while pretending look at the process of applying we know what we’re doing, is for your next job and the certainly nerve racking! never‑ending risks and Once we agreed, we sat rewards of social media. The range down to plan the day, with Having never done three main focuses. Firstly, the anything like this before, it will The presentations include: Applying for jobs content of education, secondly certainly be an interesting the environment and lastly couple of hours; so it will The benefits of social media James Bledge, course how the education is delivered. hopefully be a success and manager, Royal Cinque Ports; We want to create a certainly a learning James Bledge, course Sam Evans MG, course relaxed, fun environment experience for us. manager, Royal Cinque Ports; manager, Fulwell; Matt where people can get involved We look forward to seeing Adam Matthews, course Plested, course manager, CalMag High K High N High NK Effect Iron FE Spring & Summer STEP 9-0-0+13CaO 3-3-10+TE 25-0-0+2MgO+TE 10-0-10+TE 6.3% Fe 12-4-6+TE and ask a few questions. The you there. manager, Moor Allerton; Matt Stoneham. +3MgO+TE content of education has been The Young Greenkeepers’ Plested, course manager, selected because both the Conference is being hosted Stoneham. Greenkeeping is my career speakers and ourselves have in the Main Auditorium of found it useful throughout our the Harrogate Convention What is IPM? Sam Evans MG, course www.icl-sf.co.uk | www.icl-sf.ie careers and will be delivered Centre from 9.45am to manager, Fulwell; Paul Tel: 01473 237116 Email: [email protected] interactively to engage the 12.50pm on Wednesday 22 Dr Paul Miller, lecturer in Armour, course manager, audience. January 2020. greenkeeping. Dunbar. Contact your local distributor or ICL Technical

Area Sales Manager for more information. ® Registered Trade Mark of ICL Limited 12 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd

MS324 GREENMASTER LIQUID RANGE_x2.indd 2 01/08/2019 17:17 Points of interest | Looking ahead | Events and new members ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Looking ahead | Events and new members | Points of interest

Welcome new Don’t miss out members Look online to see a LOOKING AHEAD full list of the events Scotland & Northern Ireland that are happening Ronald Atkin, Gleddoch, AGK; Ian Scott, Rigby Taylor, near you ED; Gareth Rogers, Symbio, ED; Lewis Gray, Gleddoch, GK; Craig Surgeon, Kirkcaldy, HGK; Diana Gonzalez-Carel, SRUC (Elmwood), S; Francisco Garcia Trinidad, SRUC (Elmwood), S; Ludwig Join the BIGGA Open Support Team 2020 Johansson, SRUC (Elmwood), S.

After the success of 2019 Royal St George’s became work and divoting duties. support team by completing Northern The Open returns to the the first course outside Royal St George’s Golf the application form that is Keane Barson, Styrrup Hall, App; Alan Dunlop, Eaton, familiar fairways of Royal St Scotland to host golf’s oldest Club will host the 149th available in the Member AGK; Chris Griffin, Thornhurst Park, AGK; Kevin George’s for the 149th Open championship in 1894 and Open from the 16 to 19 July Opportunities section of the McCarthy, Thirsk & Northallerton, AGK; Matthew Ashbrook, Pryors Hayes, AGK; Max Graham, Heaton Championship in 2020. 2020 will be the 15th time 2020. Full BIGGA members BIGGA website. Entries close Moor, AGK; Nathan Plumtree, Lincoln, AGK; Ryan Once again BIGGA The Open has been can apply for a place on the on 24 January 2019. Jackson, Heaton Moor, AGK; Richard Barnes, Pryors Hayes, CM; Hamish McConchie, Pryors Hayes, DCM; members have the contested on the Kent links. Alec Hennis, The Dunnerholme, HGK; Philip opportunity to apply for a With the R&A once again Gardner, Sedbergh, HGK. place on the BIGGA requesting the assistance of Central England Volunteer Support team at BIGGA members in the Nicholas Lawson, Sleaford, A; Jacob Bourne, Gaudet this prestigious event. staging of the championship, Luce, App; Kasey McAlarey, Berkshire, App; Robyn The team will get an inside we can’t wait to return to Smith, Windmill Village, App; Samuel Biggs, Stoneleigh Deer Park, App; Jack Carter, Sutton the ropes look at the world’s Royal St George’s either. Coldfield, AGK; James Cope, Redditch, AGK; Michael top golfers and have the BIGGA support team Baines, Sleaford, AGK; Sion Coleman, Royal St 1 David’s, AGK; Cameron Chamberlain, South Kyme, chance to join the members will assist with AGK; Daniel Smith, Stourbridge, AGK; Jonathan greenkeeping team behind maintaining bunker Fisher, Ruddington Grange, AGK; Ricky Stevens, Stourbridge, AGK; Samuel Bates, Lingdale, AGK; the hosting of the presentation throughout the Steven Evans, Sunningdale, AGK; Daniel Orwin, championship, while building duration of the tournament DART Training, CA; Martin Soar, DART Training, CA; 1 Sarah Johnson, DART Training, CA; Jeremy Hindle, an incredible network of and may also be called upon DLF Seeds (Trifoliu,) ED; Nathan Scarff, GBR contacts who may help push at short notice to help with Technology, ED; Karl Milton, Staverton Park, FA; Ryan Thomson, Ely City, GK; Scott Williamson, Coventry, their careers to the next level. early morning preparation Your chance to get involved with the BIGGA Volunteer Support Team 2020 GK; Billy Farnsworth, Ruddington Grange, HGK; Sean McDonnell, Louth, HGK.

South East

Alec Wilcox, Thorndon Park, App; Cass McCarthy, Get involved with a BIGGA event near you The Shire London, App; Joe Kwaricany, Luton Hoo, App; Joseph Ramsey, Braxted Park, App; Jack Lansbury, Birch Grove House, AGK; Ben Preston, National 2 East Midlands Christmas Golf Day Sedlescombe, AGK; David Bird, Ham Manor, AGK; James Bennett, Army, AGK; Jamie Chapman, Ely Date: 11 December City, AGK; Louis Hobbs, Sunningdale, AGK; Zachary BIGGA Annual 1 1 Continue to Learn 2020 Location: Radcliffe-on-Trent GC Bond, Sunningdale, AGK; George Stillwell, The Shire Date: 19 to 22 January London, CM; Shaun Kernaghan, Turfgrass Agronomy 3 Midland Christmas Golf Day General Meeting 2 and Services, DCM; Steven Graeme, Sweetwoods, Location: Harrogate Convention Date: 13 December DCM; Josh Mitchell, New Zealand, GK; James Hearne, Hayes Leisure Parks, G. Centre Location: Blackwell GC Tuesday 21 January 2020, 2 BTME 2020 4 East of England Christmas Golf Day 2.15pm South West & South Wales Date: 21 to 23 January Main Auditorium, Date: 13 December Daniel Gordon, Waterlooville, App; Jack Leonard, Location: Harrogate Convention Centre Location: Newark GC Harrogate Convention Centre Rushmore, App; James Allen, Sherdons, App; Peter The BIGGA AGM is open to all 4 Hambling, Cirencester, App; Charlie Collins, 2 Southwick Park, AGK; Mark Haynes, St Mellion, AGK; Scotland and Northern Ireland South East Members of BIGGA, however Ian Wade, The Rolls of Monmouth, CM; Gary only Full Members are entitled to Padfield, Farrington Park, GK; James Lewis, Rushmore, 1 BIGGA Scotland Awards Lunch GK; Joe Swift, Clevedon, GK; Simon Berry, The 1 BIGGA Surrey Section Turkey Trot vote. A current membership card 3 Goodwood, HGK. Date: 11 December and AGM 2019 MUST be produced to gain entry. Location: Royal Hotel, Bridge of Allan Date: 16 December International Location: Guildford GC Alejandro Reyes, Turfgrass Agronomy and Services; Daniel Clayton, Erlen; Hakan Blusi, Swedish Golf Northern 2 Sussex Section Turf Club 1 Federation; Nils Goeran Niva, Gothenburg; Pers Date: 19 December Nyman, Vaxjo Golfklubb.

1 North East AGM and Christmas Location: West Sussex GC 1 A Affiliate Member FA First Assistant Competition AGK Assist ant GK Greenkeeper Greenkeeper G Groundsperson Date: 10 December South West & South Wales AHG Assistant Head 2 HGK Head Greenkeeper Groundsperson Location: Foxton GC (Alnmouth) HG Head APP Apprentice 1 South Wales Turkey Trot 1 Groundsperson CA College Assessor Date: 10 December I International Central England CM Course Manager Member Location: Pyle and Kenfig GC DCM Deputy Course L Life Member Manager 2 M Mechanic 1 Mid Anglia Christmas Golf Day 2 Devon & Cornwall Turkey Trot DHGK Deputy Head S Student Member Date: 10 December Date: 12 December Greenkeeper R Retired Member ED Partner & Location: Dunstable Downs GC Location: Boringdon Park GC Education Supporters

14 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 15 From your association | Membership ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Membership | From your association

Tracey Maddison Head of Time for some Membership Services traceymaddison BIGGA Ontario: Mens zip front padded @bigga.co.uk Christmas topdressing performance golf jacket Elaine Jones £60 Membership Looking for gift ideas for that special BIGGA member in your life? / 100% nylon ripstop fabric with Administration padded quilt Manager / Four‑way stretch performance elaine@ brushed side panels and sleeves bigga.co.uk deliver products of the Did you know that BIGGA has / Low profile branded zips with chin highest quality with levels of BIGGA Ethan: Mens Rachael Duffy a range of exclusive guard. Zipped chest and side pockets service that are essential in Herringbone tipped Membership merchandise available to / Stretch binding around hem and this modern world of high performance pique polo Events Manager members? armholes expectation and quick rachael@ Whether taking part in a / Embroidered branding turf club, golf day or any response time. Glenmuir has £30 bigga.co.uk number of events, you can been producing fine and / 100% performance Gil Mason show you’re part of the BIGGA stylish products for 128 years polyester pique Membership family by sporting high quality and although certain aspects / Contrast herringbone stitch on Administrator clothing and accessories of the game of golf have anti‑curl rib collar and cuffs [email protected] designed by leading golf changed during this time, we / Embroidery on right sleeve brands Glenmuir and recognise the need for consistency in quality, Sunderland of Scotland. To contact the Membership comfort and durability of the The prices are well below Team call 01347 833 800 apparel we all wear.” the recommended retail price BIGGA Wick: Mens Zip neck lightweight and select (option 1) and a percentage of any profit In addition to the Glenmuir performance midlayer is donated to the BIGGA range, there is also a selection Greenkeepers Benevolent of BIGGA branded £41.25 Full Members Personal Fund. Sunderland of Scotland BIGGA Malabar: Thermal / 90% performance polyester 10% elastane Accident Helpline Glenmuir’s Matthew Eagle outwear, which offers lined turn up rib merino / Contrast zip placket and inner collar. 0113 393 6300 technical fabrics for an said: “We are proud to have golf beanie bobble hat Weaved tricot non‑stick backing Greenkeepers outwear collection that been associated with BIGGA / Jersey cuffs and hem. YKK zip with Legal Assistance delivers the tag line ‘Never for more than 20 years and it’s £15 lockdown zip puller and chin guard 0808 181 9194 fantastic to be able to offer the Weather Beaten’. / 50% merino wool / Printed branding at back neck association’s members this To see the range and 50% acrylic Lifestyle Counselling range of exclusive branded order direct from Glenmuir, / Ribbed bobble hat Helpline merchandise at a low cost that use the special members’ / Thinsulate thermal 0333 000 2082 link at also contributes to such a great fleece lining Human Resources (HR) www.glenmuir.com/bigga cause as the Greenkeepers / Glenmuir branded tab Helpline For more information, Benevolent Fund. 0330 332 2636 contact BIGGA’s Roger “Glenmuir’s commitment BIGGAmembers@ Butler on [email protected] remains in continuing to xactgroup.co.uk

BIGGA Nova: Ladies zip front Andy Unwin, head greenkeeper, lightweight water repellent fleece Birley Wood BIGGA Paloma: Ladies golf jacket Performance pique polo “I bought some BIGGA merchandise £60 for when I’m at section events as £26.25 / 100% polyester stretch brushed it lets people know who you are / 100% performance polar fleece and anyone who’s new to these polyester pique / Teflon coated water repellent events is able to find you more / Ladies’ performance polo shirt finish easily. I think they are smart, of / Anti‑curl rib collar / Low profile branded zips with chin good quality and come at a fair / Self colour embroidery above guard. Zipped side pockets price and it’s great to know that right hem / Double layered neck collar everything you buy contributes / Embroidered branding towards the Greenkeepers Benevolent Fund!”

16 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 17 From your association | Learning and Development ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Learning and Development | From your association

Sami Strutt Head of Member Development sami@bigga. co.uk

Stuart Green Head of Member Learning stuart@bigga. Meet the co.uk Deb Burnett Special Projects Manager & PA to the CEO deb@bigga. co.uk

Jackie speaker Sedgwick Events Administrator Michael Astrop, Principal, Coach the Mind jackie@bigga. co.uk

To contact the Learning & Development Team call 01347 833 800 and select Michael with his companions Yorick, the Skull, (option 3) and the monkey used in a selection of the sessions

Hello, my name’s Michael customer that was forgotten, of us there is a chimp and I chimp also arises when you’re Michael covers a variety of topics at FTMI and BTME Astrop and I’m a speaker at the client that didn’t come One of the use him in particular when I put in a high‑pressure Continue to Learn, as well as back, all sorts of views. It’s a key things ask the group where they see situation and your fight or a trainer at FTMI each year. good prop to start a discussion their chimp most. The answer, flight response kicks in, so it’s It’s always exciting for me to or presentation. about any opening of course, is in the car. I important to learn what’s come back, because it’s great The other friend I use a lot suspect that many of you drive happening and why and then to see people developing over is a monkey, and although he is to give something a car and you’ll see the chimp you can begin to control those time. doesn’t have a name, I use him inside when someone cuts natural, physical responses. I’d like to go through some fundamentally to talk about that’s very you up or moves in front of I’ve been using him so many of the props that we use in the the fight and flight unexpected and I you unexpectedly, the chimp times at BTME that people learning delivery and why we mechanism. We refer to The pops up and says ‘show them often come in and ask choose them. Chimp Paradox, which is a find a human skull all about it’, so you tailgate whether I’ve brought the I must introduce my good book written by Dr Steve them, shake your hand or monkey with me, he’s very friend Yorick [a human skull], Peters. He says that inside all has that effect. flash your lights. However, the famous at BIGGA. Fiona Lyttle which is a prop that we use in The other things I use in all Manager the presentation skills session. my sessions are tactile toys. 01347 838 640 One of the key things about Part of the learning process is fiona@the‑gtc. any opening is to give keeping people engaged and co.uk something that’s very mentally in the room. Our unexpected, different or quite minds all wander and we think Emma Willis strong and I find a human four times as fast as people Administrator skull has that effect in any talk, so we have the ability to One of the things I also The other very popular one 01347 838 640 situation. It’s also a focal point drift off and still be connected suggest is that to get over is the classic Slinky, which emma@the‑gtc. when it’s just sitting on the to the conversation. Of course, nerves, you use a stress ball or people absolutely love. co.uk table, because people in the sometimes we wander off something like that to There’s no age on this and www.the‑gtc.co.uk audience are thinking ‘what’s completely and so these ‘manage the monkey’. One of people often enter the that skull sitting on that table things keep people my delegates did his entire training room and see these /greenkeepers for?’ It then becomes a talking connected. All the time presentation holding a stress and they’ll say ‘my small trainingcommittee point and you can use it in they’re fiddling with these, ball behind his back to control daughter or son would enjoy many ways. It can be the Some of the props used by Michael at FTMI they’re also listening. his nerves. this’, but within minutes » @TheOfficialGTC

18 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 19 From your association | Learning and Development ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Learning and Development | From your association

there they are playing with to make performance appraisals work to the toys. That keeps them maintain and develop continuous high mentally in the room. I know I performance. It is designed to provide have them still with me in the you with the knowledge, skills and room if they’re playing with confidence needed to improve the the toys. performance of staff by conducting Older people, 50s plus are meaningful performance reviews. always very suspicious because learning to them was a What will you learn? classroom‑based ‘pay attention’ process, so when they see this, / Examine the nature of performance they’re shocked. Young people, management/appraisal and establish anyone 30 or under, need no how to get the best from your team second invitation. / The need for clear, realistic objectives The one thing greenkeepers and key result areas are not used to doing is sitting Check out / Use a systematic approach when in a room like this for three the Continue to planning, preparing for and conducting hours. We’ll do some exercises, Learn at BTME 2020 the pre‑interview meeting and but for someone who is Education Programme for one‑to‑ones fundamentally attuned to more information or head to / Know how to measure competencies working outside, being in the the BIGGA website to find out / Develop and practice interviewing skills fresh air, using their hands, this more. / Conduct appraisal interviews with environment is difficult for Contact the L&D confidence them to take on information. team to book your These toys keep them mentally place today. When is it on? here and more comfortable with this alien, learning Monday 20 January from 9am to 12.30pm. environment that we have. WORKSHOPS How to Develop, Present and Sell New Ideas Writing Reports and FOCUS ON SESSION Proposals that Deliver Results Learn how you can easily develop an innovative team to ensure the future Thinking on the Spot success of your club. All decisions today are based upon What’s on at Continue to Learn 2020? reports and proposals. The skill and We all ‘think’ every day of our lives, but it is Learning Outcomes: ability to craft a persuasive document can often overlooked as a skill that can be often be the difference between the right improved. Don’t get caught ‘off‑guard’, The Deputies’ Conference will also When is it on? / Why you should be supporting DEPUTIES’ CONFERENCE decision or the wrong decision. This prepare yourself to be able to think on the feature talks from Rebecca Jones asking innovation within your team workshop will look at the four different spot. In this Focus On session you will ‘Should you really be the boss?’, Ben Davis The Deputies’ Conference takes place in / What we really mean by innovation How to Get Employees Engaged and stages that you will need to produce a acquire skills of how to gather and on ‘Using running to combat mental the Harrogate Convention Centre’s Main and why it’s not about taking risks or Improve Performance convincing document. articulate your thoughts concisely, clearly health’, a panel discussion on how to be Auditorium on Tuesday 21 January from making huge changes in your club 68% of employees are not engaged at and convincingly. A wide range of an effective deputy and Phil Helmn MG 9.30am to 1pm. / Learn how you can lead innovation in work and of those, 17% are actively What will you learn? techniques will be explored and rehearsed on ‘Recognising personality types and your club ‑ some simple activities you disengaged, which means a lot of time is to help you make the most of your mind using them to get what you want!’ can add to your team meetings and being wasted in the workplace. This / Plan and structure a document for a and thinking processes, so that you can planning sessions session will give you an insight as to why variety of objectives eventually truly think on‑the‑spot. / Innovation options which might suit this happens and what practical steps / Write a well‑organised document that your club, members and team members can be taken to reverse attitudes and leads to a persuasive conclusion What will you learn? / Develop a model for innovation in your subsequently behaviours. / Produce a readable document with club recognition of correct punctuation / React confidently to unexpected / Review how to sell new ideas to club What will you learn? and grammar questions members, committee members and / Edit and review a document to suit the / Know how to buy yourself thinking time your team / Understand what employee designated objectives / Have a structure for answering engagement is and how it manifests / Proof read the document in a precise challenging questions When is it on? itself way, taking into account the issues of / Three ways to add depth and / Create a climate for engagement the digital mindset engagement to your answers / Recognise the different kinds of / Manage the report writing process to Monday 20 January from 9am to 12.30pm. / Know the appropriate responses to engagement deliver the completed document to the obtain further information / How to get the organisational culture required time frame Putting the Praise into / Bring conversations to life and move right for positive engagement them to a higher level / The five powerful steps to improve When is it on? Appraisals employee engagement When is it on? / How to embed the engagement Sunday 19 January from 9.30am to This workshop is ideal for managers, mindset 5.30pm. supervisors and team leaders who want Tuesday 21 January from 2.45 to 4.45pm.

20 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 21 From your association | Learning and Development ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Learning and Development | From your association

FUNDING YOUR FUTURE BIGGA’s Learning & Development Fund supports a vast array of educational opportunities for BIGGA members. From subsidies, scholarships and refunds of fees to seminars, workshops and conferences, the funds generated by BIGGA Education Supporters Congratulations to the following members who improve education in the greenkeeping industry every single day. We ask BIGGA members to continue to support those companies achieved CPD Approved status this month: that are committed to supporting you on your career journey. Anthony Kirwan, Romford; Jamie Wells, Romford; Wendy O’Brien, Jurmala; Peteris Sadovskis, St Andrews Links Trust; Daryn Curtis, Royal Mid‑Surrey; Peter Dawson, South Essex Golf & CC; Jason Norwood, Rudding Park; Alan Fitzgerald, Ledgerock; Jeremy Ward, Rotherham; Chris Low, Olton; How to CPD Callum Goodhind, Prestbury; Michael Budd, Woldingham; Sam Bethell, Chipstead; Adam McColl, Gerrards Cross; Are you wondering what CPD is? Would you like to Sam Evans MG, Fulwell improve your career prospects, but aren’t sure where to start? BIGGA members have access to a range of educational Congratulations to the following members who opportunities and almost every event we host enables you achieved their CPD Milestone this month: to bank CPD credits. You can claim credits for attending seminars, getting involved with schemes or even by Peter Dawson, South Essex Golf & CC; Steven Tierney MG, reading Greenkeeper International each month. Golfpark Zurichsee AG; Callum Goodhind, Prestbury; To get started with your CPD journey, head to the Members’ Simon Lambert, Seaford Head; George Pitts MG, section of the BIGGA website and select Continuing Sunningdale; Adam McColl, Gerrards Cross Professional Development. There you’ll find resources, the answers to frequently asked questions and details of how you can get CPD approved. www.bigga.org.uk/member‑homepage/continuing‑ professional‑development.html

EDUCATE EXHIBIT EVOLVE Continue to Learn 2020 | 19‑22 January 2020 Harrogate Convention Centre | btme.org.uk

BIGGA’s dynamic and world‑leading education programme returns to Harrogate in January.

With 250 hours of education delivered by more than 60 of the industry’s most engaging speakers, Continue to Learn 2020 will deliver the best opportunity for professional development anywhere in the turf management industry.

22 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 23 Useful information | College listings ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// College listings | Useful information

YMCA Training SRUC Elmwood

Greenkeeper Training 112 Great Russell Street. London. WC1B3NQ Scotland’s Rural College Cupar, Fife KY15 4JB Contact Name: Sallyann Smith Contact: Mike Clark T: 07341 072519 | E: [email protected] T: 01334 658 969 | E: [email protected] W: www.ymca.co.uk W: www.sruc.ac.uk/elmwood BIGGA is actively involved in raising the standard of and help produce better quality golf courses to the Apprenticeships are a cost‑effective way for to ‘standards’, these programmes are written Full‑time National Certificate Greenkeeping. SVQ Sports Turf block release and work based greenkeeper training. The association is a member of benefit of all within the industry. There is a clear link businesses to develop their new and existing by employers and academics within the options. HNC Golf Course Management and HND Golf Management full time and distance the Greenkeepers Training Committee and strives to between education and training and economic staff and hire fresh talent, while giving sector, which means they’re specifically learning. Short courses in Chainsaw, Tree Climbing and Rescue Techniques. someone a life‑changing opportunity. As a designed to meet your needs as an employer. Plant Operation. Pesticide courses. Lantra Training and certification in machinery and enhance the level of education through various success and all clubs should invest in the education leading national charity, we have a proven We are proud to recruit dedicated equipment safe use. means, including section, regional and national of their staff. track record of successfully training apprentices to golf clubs, nature industries thousands of apprentices every year who go and sports organisations all over the UK, workshops, seminars and conferences. For formal qualifications, this begins by selecting on to build rewarding and fulfilling careers. including delivering Alongside this, the range and quality of training a training provider that meets the criteria laid down Among the portfolio of qualifications sports turf apprentices to available at YMCA Training are Level 2 Manchester United available throughout the UK means there is a by the GTC. There are also a number of GTC apprenticeships in Horticulture, Golf Football Club for 29 years. training course for every greenkeeper. Formal Approved training providers, identifiable by the logo. Greenkeeping and Sports Turf Operative. Having recently changed from ‘frameworks’ education will improve the quality of greenkeeping In many cases, funding support is available.

Abingdon & Myerscough College and Gosta Training Ltd Witney College University Centre Glasgow G40 2AB Contact: Lesley Lowrie T: 01415 563 999 | E: [email protected] St Michaels Road, Bilsborrow, Preston, Lancashire PR3 0RY Common Leys Farm, Hailey, Witney, Oxfordshire OX29 9UU W: www.gostatraining.co.uk Contact Name: Edward Collett Contact Name: Course Enquiries Team T: 01235 216 216 | E: apprenticeships@abingdon‑witney.ac.uk T: 0800 652 5592 | E: [email protected] SVQ Level 2 (SCQF 5) and SVQ Level 3 (SCQF 6) and Modern Apprenticeship in W: www.myerscough.ac.uk | Facebook.com/groups/MyerscoughSportsturfAlumni Greenkeeping/Sports Turf and Landscaping. Also available SVQ Level 2 (SCQF 5) Modern A career in golf greenkeeping or in horticulture can take you all over the world, and it all Apprenticeship in Sports Turf Groundsman. Myerscough College and University Centre is students enrolled from across the globe. starts with getting the proper experience with the right employer. As a regional and national Attendance day release. SVQ Level 4 Management is available with flexible learning the pioneering centre for sports turf and golf Students enrolled on our degree courses award‑winning provider, we are experts in delivering high standards of training and options. Lantra and NPTC Industry related short courses with certification include Pesticide course management education in Europe. are eligibile to apply for a prestigious R&A guidance, helping to match hundreds of apprentices with purposeful and practical courses, Chainsaw, full range of Machinery training, First Aid, Defibrillation training and Courses are available at all levels ‑ from Scholarship. Our work‑based training team opportunities every year with a wide range of exciting employers. more. Candidates may use their Individual Training Account to fund many of the courses. introductory practical skills training to our also provide nationwide apprenticeship Our Ofsted rated ‘outstanding’ apprenticeships in Training courses are available in the Glasgow and Edinburgh areas throughout the year. greenkeeping and horticulture are offered at Levels 2 and 3. post graduate Masters Degree in Sustainable opportunities in greenkeeper training. At Common Leys Farm, a 60‑acre site specialised for Golf Course Management. There are options teaching land‑based skills, we also provide RHS courses, for full‑time or part‑time online study. Our NVQs and work‑based diplomas to ensure an unrivalled foundation degree, honours degree and MA Getting into offering in these industries. programmes are available online and have greenkeeping? Berkshire College Pershore College Coleg Cambria

of Agriculture Avonbank. Pershore. Worcestershire WR10 3JP Llaneurgain, Northop CH7 6AA The Greenkeepers Training Committee T: 01926 318261 | E: [email protected] Cyswllt: Tîm Ymgysylltu â Chyflogwyr W: www.wcg.ac.uk Contact: Employer Engagement Team Hall Place, Burchetts Green,Maidenhead, SL6 6QR (GTC) provides help, advice and key T: 0300 30 30 006 | E: [email protected] Contact Name: Rob Phillips Pershore College is a national land‑based centre of excellence and WCG is the largest W: www.cambria.ac.uk T: 07491 963 572 | E: [email protected] college provider of Apprenticeship Standards in the Midlands. information to greenkeepers at all stages Our well‑established land‑based apprenticeships include: golf greenkeeping/sports turf Coleg Cambria offers a fantastic range of work‑based qualifications in sports turf, BCA offers both Level 2 and Level 3 Golf Greenkeeping, Sportsturf, Landscaping, operative/groundsperson, arborist operative, forestry operative, horticulture/landscape horticulture and environmental conservation ranging from Level 2 to Level 3 providing you Arboriculture and Horticulture courses as apprenticeships or work‑based diplomas. Delivery of their career and to golf clubs as operative, crop technician, land‑based service engineering, serviceengineers and and your workforce with the skills required to support future progression in the industry. We is either class based or online/distance, through our industry experienced assessors. technicians. We also offer short courses in arboriculture as well aspesticides training: PA1, also offer a vast range of accredited short courses including PA1 ‑ PA6, chainsaw, The college can also offer a wide range of short courses including PA1, 2 and 6, chainsaw employers. It is independent organisation PA2, PA6 and many more. WCG works with over 1,100 employers and more than 2,500 brushcutting, hedge laying and wood chipper to help build skills in the team. Work‑based options and more, tractor driving, strimmers and brushcutters. Please enquire for full details. apprentices with outstanding success rates. qualifications are available throughout North Wales and the North West of England and assessed in your own place of work. Please contact us for more information on qualifications promoting greenkeeping as a and accessing funding. professional career. From greenkeeping Mae Coleg Cambria yn cynnig ystod wych o gymwysterau yn y gwaith mewn Caeau Chwaraeon, Garddwriaeth a Chadwraeth Amgylcheddol, sy’n amrywio o Lefel 2 i Lefel 3, apprenticeships to degree level courses, gan roi’r sgiliau angenrheidiol i chi a’ch gweithlu i gefnogi datblygiadau yn y diwydiant yn y dyfodol. Rydym hefyd yn cynnig ystod helaeth o gyrsiau byr achrededig, gan gynnwys PA1 you can find information on this and ‑ PA6, llif gadwyn, torri prysgoed, torri gwrychoedd a sglodiwr coed i helpu i feithrin sgiliau tîm. Mae’r cymwysterau hyn ar gael ledled Gogledd Cymru a Gogledd Orllewin Lloegr a more by visiting www.the‑gtc.co.uk. byddant yn cael eu hasesu yn eich gweithle chi eich hun. Cysylltwch â ni i gael mwy o Merrist Wood College Sparsholt College wybodaeth am gymwysterau a chyllid. Worplesdon, Guildford, Surrey GU3 3PE Hampshire The Greenkeepers Training T: 0800 612 6008 | E: [email protected]

Merrist Wood College offers a wide range of part‑time, full‑time and online distance Winchester, Hampshire SO21 2NF | T: 0845 850 0916 Committee Ltd. Aldwark Manor, learning qualifications in Sports Turf, Horticulture, Landscaping and Golf Management. Our E: [email protected] | W: www.Sparsholt.ac.uk sports turf qualifications include Sports Turf Level 2 and 3 diplomas, Golf Greenkeeping As a land‑based specialist College, Sparsholt campus offers extensive practical training Aldwark, Alne, York YO61 1UF (Level 2) Intermediate Apprenticeship Standards and Sports Turf Operative (Level 2) facilities and equipment to meet the needs of Employers and Apprentices. Our core Intermediate Apprenticeship Standards. Our short courses include FEPA PA1, PA2 and PA6 business covers Hampshire (including the Isle of Wight), Dorset, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Safe Use of Pesticides, Chainsaw Use and more. Funding is available for Level 2 and 3 T: 01347 838 640 Oxfordshire, Surrey and West Sussex. Apprenticeship Standards, qualifications for 16 to 18 year olds (fully funded) and ‘We offer the new Level 2 apprenticeship standards, Golf greenkeeper and Sport Turf qualification for 19+ learners (partially funded) – subject to eligibility. E: golf@the‑gtc.co.uk Operative, designed by employers for employers. We deliver these programmes over a two year period including day release training covering off the job training, support visits throughout and focussed preparation for End Point Assessment. W: www.the‑gtc.co.uk The College also offers an extensive range of other apprenticeship standards and commercial /greenkeeperstrainingcommittee short courses relevant to land-based requirements such as PA1, PA2, PA6 and Safe Use of Chainsaws.’

24 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 25 Features | Royal Cinque Ports, Kent /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Royal Cinque Ports, Kent | Features

I’m not looking for the best greenkeeper in the world Royal Cinque Ports, Kent Karl Hansell, BIGGA

Royal Cinque Ports should have hosted The Open four times over its 127-year history. Unfortunately, the 1938 and 1949 stagings were relocated to Royal St George’s due to heavy flooding. While Royal St George’s is preparing to host the championship once again in 2020, golf’s oldest major has never been back to Deal, just a few short miles down the east Kent coast. Working hard to push the course to future glories is Course Manager James Bledge, who has instilled a culture of professional development that is paying off for the greenkeeping team. There’s a Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year winner, FTMI (The Future Turf Managers Initiative sponsored by Jacobsen) graduates and two staff moving on to Course Manager roles among its staff and the Royal Cinque Port members are seeing the benefits out on the course. Karl Hansell stopped by to find out what drives James and his team to achieve such national recognition.

You’re really big into the education and development of your staff and yourself. Where does that drive come from? Read this for: / Personal development I see how competitive this industry is and what / Management proposals you’ve got to do to get ahead. There’s always / Irrigation installation someone better than yourself, my father always told me that. I’m close friends with Lee Strutt MG at the RAC, and he has always pushed and made me realise what you’ve got to do to stand out and be noticed, so Listen to the I try to pass that on to my guys. » extended interview on The Green Room Golf Course Podcast

Left to right: Finlay Hyder, Nick Machin, Dan Fisher, Chris Clark, Stevie Bledge, Tristan Martin, Lee Campany, Ben Williams, Keith Pooley, James Bledge

26 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 27 Features | Royal Cinque Ports, Kent /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Royal Cinque Ports, Kent | Features

We’ll talk about it and we walk each I think you get other’s courses all the time, offering advice if it’s asked for. more out of people

What do you look for when you’re and they open up more interviewing for staff? when they’re outside. The main thing I look for is if they get on with the team. I’m looking for a trying to get them new working conditions personality, not someone who’s going to with a new canteen next year and with our be the best greenkeeper in the world. training budget we pay for them to go to When we took Ben on I made sure we BTME and Continue to Learn. came in here at lunchtime and saw how I’ve worked at golf courses where you he conversed with the rest of the team. had to buy your own uniform and steel When he left I asked them how they toe‑capped boots; I know which I’d prefer. James Bledge, Chris Clark and Nick Machin working on the sprayer equipment thought he’d get on and if they said he’s the kind of guy we want to work with, Does it help having the clubhouse so full member of the club and they like to sit there’s eight, back-to-back. In the past, if we’d offer him a job. close to the maintenance shed, meaning down in the bar and talk about the course, we wanted to water the green, we had to CVs and cover letters mean a lot to me you’re very visible in the club? which I quite enjoy. water the approach as well. You can end as well. It’s the first instruction you’re up wasting a lot of water that way, but we given as a potential employee so if you Definitely, and I actively encourage You’ve had a major irrigation project can control it a lot more now. can’t get that right, you might struggle. the team to speak to the members. We completed here this year. What was that That’s come through FTMI as well, try not to mix machinery and golf, but experience like? You’ve started using Toro’s smartphone

Tee levelling looking at techniques of applying for jobs should one of the guys be standing at the app to control the irrigation. Do you have and answering the covering letter like it’s side of a fairway and someone’s playing Work began with MJ Abbotts last to budget yourself, so you don’t get Is an appreciation of personal meetings, wanting me to see exactly what an exam paper. Keep things short, sweet out of a bunker, I’ll encourage them to rake September when we were building the trigger happy? development something you always had it was to be a course manager. It really and punchy and stand out from the it for them and then have a quick chat. I’ve new holes. Then from December we or did it come later? inspired me and I thought, I want to be crowd, whether it’s through different never bought into the idea that started closing a hole at a time. We mole It’s a big bit of software and you can be just like that. coloured paper or fonts. It’s all these little greenkeepers should be seen and not ploughed in new cable everywhere and very precise. We had a grand opening It came later. I loved my job and was things that get you ahead. heard. Quite often, our members are really all the heads got swapped to Toro. We ceremony, where everyone went up onto always a grafter. I did college work early Do you think people take up their first job I don’t have one‑on‑one interviews interested in the course. They made me a had four heads around every green, now the clubhouse balcony. I set a » and got it out the way, but that was not as managers without an idea of what it sitting in an office. Maybe there is a time necessarily for the best because I was just actually entails? and a place, but I think you get more out getting the qualification, rather than of people and they open up more when learning. I’ve learned a lot more since I think a lot of folk get a massive fright. they’re outside. We’ll always walk the then by doing things at BTME and We try to pass that message on at FTMI, course and have something to eat with Continue to Learn, such as short courses, to say this is a bigger deal than you think. them. You don’t get to meet the real seminars and other training. I know a lot of guys who have panicked person if you’re sitting in an intense when they got the job, myself included. environment with them. the worker is king Is encouraging continued learning key to My first year was tough, the second year We’re a team here of 10 huge inspiring the next generation? was harder, and you get there, but you personalities. I’ll let them know if I’m not need to have help from people. I’m not happy with something, but I treat them I’m a big believer in getting my guys to ashamed to say that I’ve had help from with masses of respect and we try to look try everything. Not only because it helps people, whether it’s a phone call or a after them. They get a lunch every day if you’re short staffed, but it also keeps visit. I’ve a great friend in Sean McLean and I fought for that because it saves the them interested. How can you keep them next door at Prince’s. If ever I’m staff a lot of money and it is good motivated if they know that every day questioning what I’m doing, I’ll ask Sean. motivation. They get uniforms too. We’re they’re going to do the same job? Job variation is key and the guys like it. Finlay and Ben cut fairways this week – it’s Finlay’s first week and I put him on a fairway mower. We’ll make sure he’s supervised so it won’t matter if he makes a mistake. And if he does, he’ll learn from it. We’ve got training sheets where they tick off the hours they’ve done, before they’re allowed off on their own. Some of the biggest things I’ve learnt are through shadowing people, such as Lee or Dan Lightfoot MG. When Dan was GkbGkb machines, machines, taking taking our our knowledge knowledge of of contracting contracting to to supply supply the the best best possible possible machine machine solution. solution. the course manager at Bearwood Lakes, Gkb machines, taking our knowledge of contracting to supply the best possible machine solution. BeBe it it a anatural, natural, synthetic synthetic or or hybrid hybrid pitch.. pitch.. we we have have a amachine machine to to suit suit your your needs. needs. he couldn’t have been more Be it a natural, synthetic or hybrid pitch.. we have a machine to suit your needs. accommodating. I shadowed him for www.gkbmachines.comwww.gkbmachines.comwww.gkbmachines.com // /[email protected]@gkbmachines.com [email protected] // /0749507495 07495 8888 88 3636 36 1717 17 three days and he had me in all his Royal Cinque Ports GC

TOMTOMTOM 180130.indd 180130.indd 180130.indd 1 1 1 26-7-201826-7-201826-7-2018 13:50:14 13:50:14 13:50:14 28 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd GKB_BIGGA_Sept.indd 1 @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper17/09/2019 International 12:38 | 29 InstrataElite_ad_2017_Final-HR.pdf 1 12/06/2017 12:07

Features | Royal Cinque Ports, Kent /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// NEW IN THE SHED INSTRATA ELITE You can continue DUAL ACTION the conversation on The Team social media using @BIGGALtd and / James Bledge, @JamesBledge course manager / Lee Campany, deputy course manager / Ben Williams, greenkeeper / Chris Clark, greenkeeper OUTSIDE / Daniel Fisher, greenkeeper / Keith Pooley, greenkeeper / Michael McDonnell, greenkeeper / Nick Machin, greenkeeper / Tristan Martin, greenkeeper / Finlay Hyder, apprentice greenkeeper James demonstrates the newly installed irrigation system at Royal Cinque Ports IN / Stevie Bledge, team dog programme where the sprinklers started at tractor is 30 years old, this is how much it The Equipment the 18th tee and worked all the way up the cost us this year, this is how much it’s PROTECTION fairway and got one of the female members projected to cost next year’. / Kubota 6060 tractor to press the button to officially launch it. Greenkeepers need to be on the ball CONTACT and SYSTEMIC action / 2 x Kubota 5040 tractors Your irrigation system is your biggest when it comes to using equipment to / Kubota UH48-4 excavator asset, but it’s under the ground and you justify things. The POGO for example, IC against Microdochium / 2 x Toro HDX utility vehicles can’t see it, so clubs sometimes wonder can justify not chucking water on the M / 3 x Toro GTX-e utility vehicles where their money’s going. But here they greens by spending £1,000 on a POGO.Y I / Toro 5800 sprayer were all 100% behind it. can save 5,000m3 of water by using this CM / Toro 4500 rough mower I’ve worked at golf courses where POGO because I’m going to hand water PROTECTIVE / 2 x Toro 5610 fairway mowers they’ve said ‘we can’t dig that drainage only where it needs it, rather than MY / Toro 3100 trim mower ditch on the 16th because the members chucking the heads up every night andCY / 3 x Toro 3420 need new carpets in the locker room’. putting water all over. By saving that CMY / 3 x Toro 1000 That’s so common and it always will be, water, I can put it on my fairways instead, K / 4 x Toro Flex 2120 all over Britain. But your course is your so they don’t dry out. / Toro Procore biggest asset. People don’t remember / Salsco HP11 -III roller coming here for the shower they had. It’s data driven, but you’ve also got to / Weidenmann Terra Brush They remember coming here because have the communication skills to back / Weidenmann Super 500 flail our 16th approach is so awesome and it up. / Weidenmann GXI8 they got to putt up it from 70 yards away. I / Verdo Supercompact think that’s very important and a lot of It’s all in the way you ask for things, / Charterhouse Rink DS 3800 clubs could do well to remember that. I guess. Whether that would work at other topdresser clubs, I couldn’t say. It’s a hard job that / Toro Propass 200 topdresser How do you change that culture? Does we’ve got, and I know that people can say / Toro 2500 trailed topdresser the greenkeeper need to be more vocal? we’re an affluent club, but with more / Bernhard Express Dual 4000 money comes greater expectations. Golfers CURATIVE grinder I spend a lot of time doing proposals. I expect the course to be in top condition / Bernhard Anglemaster 4000 give them an example of what may every single day. When we looked around, I NEW powerful systemic difenoconazole plus fludioxonil grinder happen if we don’t do something, or what was disappointed in in a couple of areas of contact action delivers reliable control whatever the / 3 x 5 ton trailers can happen positively if we invest in a the course. It stresses you out a little but / Procore trailer piece of kit. For example, we bought a you have to be proactive. weather - apply and it’s rainfast in 30 minutes! / 3 x Toro Transpro trailers roller last year that was a little more Two applications per year. / Classen HSC18 turfcutter expensive, but I thought it was worth the Rather than the 5% who have a complaint, / Toro DPA verticut units extra money. One of the things we do greenkeepers need to listen to the struggle with is speed on our greens and I 95% who enjoyed the course a little more? said, I can guarantee that we can up the speed by a foot if you buy me this roller. I try not to be too harsh with the team, I get Keith [Pooley], the mechanic, to though I am my own worst critic. We record every time a machine goes down strive so hard to be perfect. I always say

and how much it cost to fix it. When it to the members, tell me as much as you ynenta td. Registered in England No. 849037. CPC4, Capital Park, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5XE mail [email protected] eb www.greencast.co.uk came to renewing a couple of tractors a want about how good the course is, we Instrata® Elite is a Registered Trademark of a Syngenta Group Company. Instrata® Elite (MAPP 17976) contains fludioxonil and difenoconazole. All other brand names used are trademarks of other manufacturers in which proprietary rights may exist. couple of years ago, I could tell them ‘this can never hear it too much. lways read te label and roduct information before use. se lant rotection roducts safely. or more information includin warnin rases and symbols refer to www.reencast.co.u © Syngenta June 2017. GQ. 30 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd istributed in te and reland by C td. el 01473 201100 mail [email protected] eb www.icl-sf.co.uk Features | Confessions of a greens chairman ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Confessions of a greens chairman | Features

Read this for: / Golf club politics / Building relationships / Communication CONFESSIONS OF A GREENS CHAIRMAN

How a positive working relationship is helping Whitley Bay thrive

Whatever the reasons, when So, if you’re struggling to was a low handicap I was doing, that he was the expert greens chairmen go bad, it’s build relationships with your going to set the course up to at the club and that the usually the course and club committee or senior be difficult. My desire was to members needed to listen to that suffers. management, what can you make it fair for everyone. the course manager who was But it doesn’t have to be learn from Seton’s approach? My only personal agenda the qualified professional that way. At Whitley Bay, on was to learn more – to learn within the organisation. the Tyneside coast, Seton Here are his secrets… from Simon about course Wakenshaw’s two years at the maintenance, agronomy and Communication is key helm could be reproduced as What I wanted to achieve so on. And ultimately produce a manual on how you can when I took on the role the best conditioned course I wrote a newsletter which work with your course possible. went out to members each manager to be a great I didn’t want to do what I decided that, working month. It was probably three chairman and how everyone people thought I would. The alongside him, we needed to or four pages and, because of can benefit. perception was that because I be confident in what we were my background in design, it » A plus handicap golfer who plays for Northumberland county, he arrived in post during a crucial time for a club that was midway through a substantial redevelopment project. It was a four‑year plan to renovate the 6th through Want to 10th holes and new approaches, green complexes know more? and bunkering were all part of the massive enterprise. Seton could have taken an You can find more great features overbearing approach but, in like this in the latest edition of Your Course – available in your a method that marked his clubhouse and on the BIGGA tenure, he cultivated his website today relationship with course manager Simon Olver and educated the membership Seton Wakenshaw, greens chairman (left) and Simon Olver, with regular and informative course manager at Whitley Bay work side by side communication. Whitley Bay golf course

32 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 33 Features | Confessions of a greens chairman ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Confessions of a greens chairman | Features

to be full trust and buy‑in to the ‘project’ and a good course manager is going to have a long‑term view on things. It has to be bought into from both parties, even if the chairman of greens has to fight for that at times at board or committee level. Both parties have to commit time and energy to a common goal – a plan that will drive decisions within the financial constraints of the business. In my experience, a course manager wants a chairman of greens who they can relate to and work with. Because Simon and I worked well together, it

Maintenance work being completed was a massive positive as it Whitley Bay pulled the communication was professionally presented. reasonable amount leading up committees is very together and it strengthened questions on the discussions really important. We stuck to I wanted to make it really to my appointment. Then we challenging for employees. our positions. we’d had. People would say Simon and I are of a similar age the plans we made and they clear to Simon that I was played every two or three That was the biggest shock to Those two people lead by ‘you must know almost as and a similar ethos, regarding were to produce a course for listening to what he had to say weeks when I became me, partly because those example and I believe that it’s much as Simon’. But I was all members that could be and equally he was listening chairman of greens. committees change on a not just what you say, it’s what quick to clarify that my golf course set up, and we are good enjoyed and provide true to me. We worked out that we relatively regular basis and you do. knowledge was a very small handicaps. That’s what we did. We set up several forums were on the same page in also because of the personal fraction of his and wouldn’t friends – that was the key to it. I can’t say I would do – some on a weekend so more what we were trying to do and agendas people may have for Do your homework – and know make any claim beyond that. anything differently. I’m a big members could attend – but it clicked. being on that committee. your limits Greenkeeping is more of a The more, within reason, over time, it’s going to be even believer in that if you don’t because of the information It was a fairly unique way of The really interesting thing science now than it ever has you can instruct the members better, healthier and more have the golf course you don’t that went out in the working and I’m not sure you is that people generally don’t We were working with been and it is important to that this is what you’re doing sustainable because of the have a golf club. You are newsletters very few came. would see it very often. But it have any experience in the architect Jonathan Gaunt on recognise that this has because you’re sticking to a things that you are doing. trying to balance getting the So, we actually got to the was very natural. industry and that’s really our construction project and elevated the role and value of long‑term plan, rather than clubhouse side of things and point where there was very difficult. there were a lot of site visits. I the course manager. asking their opinion on a What would I do differently? the course side of things right. little comment, members knew How that relationship needs So, the relationship read quite a lot about golf Where I could contribute short‑term fix, the more you’ll The reason Whitley Bay is everything that would be to work between the chairman of course architecture at the was from the golf course be able to achieve. I’ve no regrets. We took a thriving at the minute is taking place in advance and greens and the course time and this informed site design perspective. We did a You’ve got to be prepared very systematic approach and because of the course. And this averted most questions. Being employed in an manager needs to be a close visits. lot with shaping fairways, for a few questions. But we had very rational ways of doing the course is in great We would try and inform industry that is primarily run one. For me, it’s just a lot of That was one of the big rough approaches and so on, wouldn’t operate just for things. The working condition because the club them of things before they by amateur boards or common sense. There needs reasons for our good but what he liked from me was today. You’re trying to get the relationship with the course trusts its course manager and happened. You can’t win relationship. I was interested that I offered a fresh pair of course as good as it can be manager and greens team was his team. everyone over but two‑way and quite happy to ask eyes on things. We would today but with a view that, a big deal and I thought it was communication was valued. questions. Questions are often go out with a spray can never stupid, no matter how and mark things out. If I was The dos and don’ts of effective greens chairmen There’s got to be trust naïve or simple they may going out at the weekend, he seem. I would ask a huge was happy to say ‘have a look Simon and I are of a similar number of questions to inform and see if there is anything and DO… / Recognise the need for course set up. They are age and have a similar ethos my knowledge and continued message me’. clear and thorough not the experts. regarding golf course set up, doing that throughout my two We had that similar / Be prepared and want to communication. / Be swayed by personal and we are good friends – years – asking questions a attention to detail. Almost learn about greenkeeping agendas on the that was the key to it. member might ask when they every day we would message and course management. DON’T… committee. There should He’d been at Whitley Bay don’t have any background of back and forth. / Trust your course be an agreed mid- to about two years and there was knowledge through to much manager and work with / Have a personal agenda long-term plan that can a shared work ethic and more advanced ideas. How it all comes together them ‑ they are the expert. – on bunkers, rough, be implemented by the agenda in terms of what we Even when we’d had long / Develop short, mid and green speed and so on. greens team. were going to do. There was a discussions about why we There has to be an long‑term plans together These should be driven by / Do it because you like the trust there and it was 100 per were doing something – for absolute level of trust and the with the course manager the restrictions that title or status of being cent on both sides. turf health, or why the green chairman of greens has to – and stick to them where budget and style will chairman of greens. That’s We spoke a lot – on a daily surface performance was as it want to learn. That’s really you possibly can. impose upon what the the worst reason for doing basis. If anything needed was at that point, or whether it significant. If you’ve got a / Have a thick skin and be greenkeepers can achieve. anything. discussing he would ring or I was around disease or good course manager you can prepared to justify the / Allow members to have would give him a call. He plays sustainability – I would ask be confident with the plans you are carrying out. too much influence on golf as well and we played a Simon Olver enjoying the course more and more in depth decisions you are making.

34 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 35 Features | BTME 2020 //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// BTME 2020 | Features

HIGH LIFT CAPACITY BIGGA 2020 DOESN’T MEAN EXCESSIVE HORSE POWER

TURF Taking a snapshot of BTME the New Products Area. January, the association’s After the first day of the Learning & Development exhibition all visitors are team has put together its invited to join the BIGGA largest‑ever package of Welcome Celebration hosted education. MANAGEMENT by Naga Munchetty in the Continue to Learn features main auditorium. This event more than 250 hours of features two drinks receptions education delivered by over and will celebrate all the 90 speakers. finest achievements and The Golf Course milestones from this year. Architecture and EXHIBITION We’re kicking off the Management Forum will second day of BTME in style, showcase collaborations with the free‑to‑attend BTME between architects, course Breakfast Club taking a look at managers and their “Cock‑ups, Disasters and greenkeeping teams at some Building on the incredible Alongside the exhibitors will Calamities” out on the course, of the biggest projects in golf, success of BTME 2019, be the Green Room Podcast Start the Roaring following the BTME Early Bird including Royal Portrush, Europe’s largest turf Live Stage hosted by Curtis 5k Run sponsored by Royal Dornoch and The JCB management exhibition Tyrrell MG CGCS, a Syngenta helping to raise Golf & Country Club. returns to the Harrogate Sustainability Zone in Twenties in style at the awareness of mental health. Regular favourites such as Convention Centre from association with the Golf As always, Continue to the Turf Managers’ Conference, Tuesday 21 to Thursday 23 Environment Organisation and Learn will kick off the week, the Deputies’ Conference and biggest party of the year January 2020. the STRI Group will be with the education the Young Greenkeepers’ BTME will feature more showcasing science in action Well balanced compact tractors mean you can lift all you programme evolving to better Conference will also return. than 150 exhibiting companies in a live turf laboratory. There’ll need without having to increase the size and horsepower. suit the needs of BIGGA Register now for BTME spread across four zones at the also be the return of Golf members. Taking place from 2020 by heading to the BTME Harrogate Convention Centre. Course Construction LIVE and Sunday 19 to Wednesday 22 website. With superior lift capacities from 1270kg right up to 1600kg the ISEKI TG6 range of compact tractors offers all you need to run all your turf Students identify types of turf at BTME 2019 maintenance equipment without the need to increase the size or horsepower of your tractor.

With quality manufacturing and exceptional reliability, lightweight and highly manoeuvrable, the ISEKI TG6 compact tractors from 36hp to 65hp are ideal for maintaining all areas of a golf course.

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The welcome celebration celebrates the success of greenkeepers across the association

///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// BTME 2020 | Features

Join the ﬁ rst BTME early bird TERRA SPIKE running crew AERATORS

Cold start? and join Ben Davis, Kick start your day the Running Ambassador for CALM, and some of the BIGGA Staﬀ for an early morning 5K run, sponsored by Syngenta. Then kick start! Harrogate Convention Centre Where: main entrance - opposite the Crowne Plaza entrance

When: 6.30am, Wednesday

22 January 2020 TM The Terra Spike is renowned for Sponsor of: Entries must be received by 13 December speed, precision & easy operation. Choose from 11 di erent aerators: 2019 and runners will receive a the acclaimed GXi8 HD, the complimentary souvenir T-Shirt. For more compact SL, the extra deep XP & everything in between. information and to register to run visit www.bigga.org.uk/btme/btme-early-bird- run.html or scan the QR code. VISIT WIEDENMANN.CO.UK OR CALL 0141 814 3366 FOR INFO Follow us on Twitter @WIEDENMANNUK

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Rigby Taylor Ltd Freephone 0800 424919 www.rigbytaylor.com [email protected] @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 39 Sponsored Content | BTME 2020 ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

PITCHFIX | Introducing “the Greenkeeper Pro” and “PickCup” – Reducing stress on the Green

Greenkeeper Pro

The Greenkeeper Pro Greenkeeper Pro Green

The Greenkeeper Pro features Pitchfix’s patented RepairTec pin technology, originally designed for the Pitchfix Fusion 2.5 divot repair tool, it has won the Golf Digest’s Editors’ Choice award for the last 3 years running. The Greenkeeper Pro is 33" long, so no more bending down, and constructed with an ergonomic rubberised handle, a carbon fibre shaft and a spring‑loaded CNC aluminium head with 4 stainless steel Greenkeeper Pro Blue RepairTec pins. With a single push and pull action into the ball mark, the stainless‑steel pins in the head pull up, creating a level finish and a perfectly repaired and aerated ball mark. With a dry‑firm and wet‑soft choice in a Greenkeeper Pro set, Pitchfix has ensured that any green condition can be repaired with ease .Watch the video here: youtu.be/9OI4cRArhDg “We’re very excited to introduce our new products to golf clubs and green keeping teams around the world,” said new R&A and USGA rule that the flagstick flagstick and has a soft edge to protect the Bart Fokke, the CEO of Pitchfix, “We have can remain in the hole while putting. grass around the hole. PickCup improves designed these products to rectify Many golfers, when removing the ball speed of play, eliminates damage to the probably the two biggest challenges on from the cup insert their hand, putter or edge of the hole, reduces the need for the course: the repairing of ball marks ball retriever between the flag stick and new pin placements and eliminates the and the increased damage to holes since the edge of the hole, creating more requirement to bend over the retrieve your the rule change in 2019” damage to the hole. This results in greater ball. Watch the video here: www.youtube. frequency moving the holes, creating com/watch?v=XD66I-0U1ms The PickCup extra repair and maintenance work for Pitchfix has operational and probably an already stretched manufacturing facilities in the Mr Fokke went on to say, ”The invention greenkeeping team” Netherlands, Hong Kong, China, and the of PickCup is in large part a result of the PickCup is easy to install onto any U.S. Pitchfix promises a customer service, second to none, with orders being fulfilled within three days. For further information go to www.pitchfix.com. or contact the European Sales and Marketing Manager direct, Simon Brown, [email protected], Tel: 0031 628506991 Better greens with Pitchfix! Come and visit us at the BTME in January on stand 150!

Article brought to you by

40 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd Features | BTME 2020 ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// WHO IS EXHIBITING AT BTME 2020?

BLUE ZONE Bailoy Irrigation Controls ...... 203 Hurrells ...... 345 It’s about obsessing over the little things, the details no one Advance Grass Solutions Ltd...... 121 Baroness ...... 220 Huxley Golf ...... 346 else sees. It’s never tolerating anything less than the best. Agrigem Ltd...... 130 Belchim Crop Protection ...... 255 LS Systems Ltd...... 306 Perfection is a mindset. And that’s worth being proud of. Agrovista UK Ltd. - Sherriff Amenity . 164 Border Sports Services Ltd...... 209 MJ Abbott Ltd...... 302 Amenity Forum ...... 156 Campey Turf Care Systems ...... 276 Profusion Environmental Ltd...... 322 Freephone 0800 085 25 22 Aquarille Consultancy Services ...... 151 Club Car ...... 216 Redlynch Leisure Aquatrols ...... 140 Dennis & Sisis ...... 244 Installations Ltd...... 336 Arco Ltd...... 103 DLF & Johnsons Sport Seed ...... 214 Sibelco ...... 310 Better Billy Bunker Inc ...... 124 Double A/Tru-Turf ...... 286 SRC Aggregates ...... 308 Bionema Ltd...... 170a Durabunker Ltd...... 298 Sustane Fertiliser Inc ...... 304 Biral ...... 159 E.P. Barrus Ltd...... 264 Symbio ...... 318 British and International Ferris, Wright, Spider & Jensen ...... 228 Tarmac Topsport ...... 326 Golf Greenkeepers Association ...... 147 Fleet Line Markers Ltd...... 208 Terralift UK Ltd...... 319 CMW Golf Course Equipment...... 167 Foley Company ...... 246 The PPL Group ...... 314 Compo Expert ...... 143 GBR Technology Limited ...... 205 Tillers Turf Co Ltd...... 332

Consolidate Turf ...... 131 Germinal GB Ltd...... 262 TurfCare ...... 324 OFFICIAL D & S Factors Ltd...... 113 GreenTek Solutions Ltd...... 200 Verde Sports Ltd...... 300 GOLF COURSE EQUIPMENT European Institute of Golf Grillo Agrigarden Ltd...... 236 SUPPLIER Course Architects ...... 152 Groundsman Industries Ltd...... 240 PURPLE ZONE EMS Dashboard ...... 154 Headland Amenity Ltd...... 272 Bernhard and Company ...... 408 Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd...... 107 Huck Nets (UK) Ltd...... 231 BLEC ...... 414 Garfitts International Ltd...... 111 Hunter Industries ...... 270 Charterhouse Turf Golf Club Managers Association ...... 155 John Deere ...... 274 Machinery ...... 432

BY APPOINTMENT TO Golf Course Superintendents KAR UK Ltd...... 270 Cleveland Alliances Ltd...... 434 HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN SUPPLIERS OF AGRICULTURAL, GROUNDSCARE AND HORTICULTURAL EQUIPMENT Association of America ...... 149 Kioti UK Ltd...... 252 Ecobunker Ltd...... 416 JOHN DEERE LTD NOTTINGHAM Greenfix ...... 158 Kubota (UK) Ltd...... 219 GKB Machines Ltd...... 406 The Greenkeepers Lloyds & Hunter Grinders ...... 238 ICL ...... 426 Training Committee ...... 148a Ma’anshan Green Friend Machine Indigrow ...... 412 Grundfos Pumps ...... 122 Manufacturing Co Ltd...... 296 Lindum Turf UK ...... 410 Herbatech SRL ...... 166 Maxstim Ltd...... 234 Otterbine on Toro stand ...... 420 Hydro App Systems Ltd...... 108 Mixto & Idverde ...... 250 Price Turfcare Ltd...... 450 Institute of Groundsmanship ...... 104 MTD Speciality Turf Products ...... 253 Rigby Taylor Ltd...... 424 Inturf ...... 169 Myerscough College ...... 201 STRI Group ...... 402 ISEKI UK & Ireland ...... 145 Ocean Knowledge ...... 290 Syngenta UK Ltd...... 428 Lantra Awards ...... 168 Perrot ...... 254 Textron Golf ...... 422 Limagrain ...... 162 Sheltons Sportsturf Drainage Ltd. ... 284 The Grass Group ...... 430 M H Goals ...... 109 SISGrass ...... 288 Toro ...... 420 Mansfield Sand Company Limited .... 126 Soil Biology Ltd...... 258 Turfkeeper ...... 404 Maxwell Amenity ...... 139 Sports Metals Ltd...... 242 Waste2Water Europe Ltd...... 436 Pitchfix ...... 150 SRUC ...... 294 Wessex International ...... 407 Plant Food Company Inc ...... 105 Star EV ...... 204 Pogo Turf Pro ...... 161 Team Sprayers Ltd...... 213 Rain Bird ...... 132 Tolhurst Ltd...... 230 Spal Automotive (UK) Ltd...... 160 Trilo ...... 200a Don’t forget the Spectrum Technologies Inc...... 129 Trimax Mowing Systems ...... 266 BIGGA team will be Sports & Turf ...... 148 True Surface ...... 246 STIHL ...... 165 TYM Tractors ...... 211 on stand 147 Tacit Golf LLP ...... 106 Ultra Soil Solutions Ltd...... 241 Talbot Sports Turf Installation ...... 123 UPL Ltd...... 292 Thorntrees Amenity ...... 171 Valagro UK Ltd...... 277 Tonick Watering ...... 141 VGR Equipment BV ...... 229 Turf Machinery Spares Ltd...... 118 Wiedenmann UK ...... 218 Turfix ...... 138 TurfTrainer by HineCraft, LLC ...... 157 GREEN ZONE Velvit Ltd...... 144 Aitkens ...... 334 Barenbrug ...... 315 RED ZONE Bayer ...... 338 2CL Communications Ltd...... 232 County Sport Surfaces Ltd...... 344

Acumen ClearWater ...... 206 County Turf Ltd...... 312 TS60240.1ENG_GB_FPH_LET1_PGA_RW AFT Trenchers Ltd...... 280 Delta-T Devices Ltd...... 320

42 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd

TS60240_1_FPH_LET1_PGA_RW_Greenkeeper International.indd 1 12/11/19 15:35 Features | Insight | Syngenta | The science of modern greenkeeping ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// The science of modern greenkeeping | Syngenta | Insight | Features

applications are essential to is slower, it is more susceptible to the that they absorb water to the point that suppress disease and prevent infections effects of infection. At cooler they explode and are rendered harmless. breaking out. temperatures the M. nivale is also subject For winter applications in slow Disease population Studies in Norway have shown that to less competition from other growing conditions, the contact activity Microdochium nivale spores could be antagonistic microorganisms in the of Medallion TL also remains on the leaf isolated in greens with no visible signs of sward, and is therefore able to thrive in surface without being mown off, and the infection throughout the year, with the niche conditions. longevity of protection is retained at typically lower levels in autumn, This work has clearly shown a close cooler temperatures (See November compared to the spring. correlation between environmental issue of Greenkeeper International dynamics The study also showed that pathogen conditions and the speed of disease Insight – How long will your fungicide populations were equally present on development. The implication is that last?). greens as well as surrounding areas, when conditions are favourable for M. Microdochium Patch can break out at along with being found in similar nivale, the window of opportunity to take Preventative action any time over the winter months. numbers in sunny areas of greens, corrective action can be very limited. Understanding how and why pathogen compared to shaded areas. The original source of the infection Fungicide activity of fludioxonil and numbers can proliferate so quickly is also has to be considered. If the spores difenoconazole (also in Instrata Elite) that crucial to avoid potentially disastrous Infection precursor arrive as wind‑borne ascospores, the will target and kill off mycelial growth effects on turf quality and playability, required conditions and development when spores have germinated is also advocates Syngenta Technical Manager, This latter fact highlights that, with time would be slower, compared to if crucial in preventing disease from Glenn Kirby. spore presence almost ubiquitous across there is saprophytic mycelial growth in penetrating into the leaf or growing to Trials have shown infection in the golf course, it is the prevailing plant debris at a resting stage, poised for affect turf health and break out into untreated turf quickly reaching 30% or conditions and health of the turf in conducive conditions to develop. M. visible symptoms that will spread. 40% of the surface affected – by which localised areas that is the precursor to nivale has been reported to have strong In both instances, the key is action to time player satisfaction would likely have infection breaking out and the speed of saprophytic ability, hence the inoculum prevent initial disease infection. plunged to non‑existent. In reality, development. source could be conidia and hyphae ITM measures that will reduce disease infection at 0.5% of the surface looks Disease can typically be extracted at a already present in the sward. pressure, as well as well‑timed fungicide bad, and may be more than some clubs mix of spore, conidia and hyphae stages These factors are particularly applications to lower the initial are prepared to tolerate. in the leaf and sward, further important for fungicide selection. With populations and the disease pressures, Syngenta research with STRI this year complicating control decisions. disease outbreaks starting with spore can maintain turf health and playing has sought to qualify the impacts of low When M. nivale has been isolated and germination, the activity of fludioxonil quality through to renewed spring growth. levels of Microdochium nivale infection. Disease can typically be extracted at a mix of spore, conidia and hyphae stages in the leaf and sward, further complicating grown in laboratory conditions, the radial – in Medallion TL and Instrata Elite – is control decisions. Outbreaks at 1% to 2% of surface area growth rate indicating rate of disease especially valuable. It affects the osmotic affected are often seen as the maximum demonstrated that only an assessed multiply by hundreds of thousands development was measured at 1.3mm to balance of target pathogen spores, such acceptable; levels of 5% that might sound score of 0% ‑ 0.25% disease infection, overnight in the right conditions. 1.6mm (av. 1.4mm) per day at 2°C. But when low, actually look visually extremely harsh. achieved by incorporating a new Integrated Turf Management (ITM) incubated at 20°C grew around six times Syngenta development turf fungicide practices to make conditions inhospitable faster, at 7.5mm to 8.5mm per day. Unacceptable damage active into the programme, provided the to disease and favourable for turf health, Whilst the disease can develop faster necessary long‑term control in a very including grass species and cultivars at higher temperatures, in practice most For a course with an average hectare high pressure situation. more resistant to infection, is clearly the problems actually occur in late autumn of greens, 5% infection on one green The problem is that, in the right foundation to slowing disease and winter. That is primarily since when would equate to 275,000cm2, or over conditions for disease development, development. But, when weather turf is actively growing in warmer 27m2. Most would consider 5.5m2 of infection spread can be exponential. conditions and the management conditions it can withstand greater infected area on a green ‑ just 1% of the What starts as one spot; then two and constraints of maintaining high quality disease pressure and outgrow surface area ‑ as unacceptably high. four, etc, quickly escalates so infections playing surfaces all year round infections, but at cooler Research in Ireland this season that have been left uncontrolled could compromise turf health, fungicide temperatures, when turf growth

Fig 1. Representation of surface area affected by different levels of disease scarring. Source: STRI

Early morning mowing with thanks to Shaun Cunningham, 0.25% 0.5% 1% 11% 16% Mortonhall

Working in partnership with The science of modern greenkeeping

44 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 45 Features | What makes a good bunker? /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// What makes a good bunker? | Features

What makes a good bunker? An architect’s perspective Karl Hansell, BIGGA

BIGGA recently caught up with course architect William Swan at the conclusion of a bunker restoration programme at Huddersfield Golf Club. William was enlisted by We took the opportunity to the 128‑year‑old club to find out more about what a restore a consistent look to leading course architect Listen to the the bunkers that had been considers when looking at extended interview tweaked down the years by ways to improve sand on The Green Room some of the best‑known hazards around the Golf Course Podcast designers in golf history. course. »

46 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 47 Features | What makes a good bunker? /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// What makes a good bunker? | Features

golf course to look after. But if Age not only because of the aspect of the decision process, end. If he’s not happy, then in you want to reduce fantastic courses they William stayed in close the end he’ll say ‘I can’t look maintenance on bunkers and designed, but also the contact with Huddersfield’s after this’. That does happen, you follow it through to its appearance of them,” said Course Manager, Ben Turner, but it’s about managing logical conclusion, you’ll end William. “Maybe we’re looking throughout the course of the personalities. Ben is easy to up playing golf on a football through rose‑tinted glasses, redesign project. Theirs was an get along with and I’d talk to pitch with no features but they did look great. I think important working relationship him about any changes he’d whatsoever. You have to find that as technology in golf that helps to strike the balance like me to make. The more the a compromise between the course maintenance between restoring Fowler’s greenstaff can be part of the two that achieves everything improved, we tipped the original vision and what Ben process, even if they’re not you want from an architectural balance towards managing a and his team would be able to doing the construction point of view, without making course to accommodate that maintain. themselves, they will feel an it impossible for the technology. We’ve got to find “Each time I visited ownership of it and look after greenkeepers to maintain the right balance between the Huddersfield I would have a it better because it’s their them.” maintenance and the design. walk around,” said William. course. Then, hopefully, at the At Huddersfield, the course “It’s the same for “Ben has to be happy with end of the project they’ll love has been altered by famous construction. You look out at what he’s going to get in the them as much as we do.” architects including Sandy this course and many of these Herd, James Braid, Alister foundations were built by MacKenzie and Donald Steel, hand or with an old‑fashioned Bunkers act as signposts for how to play the golf course having originally been laid out horse drawn scraper. What we Why did the bunkers by Tom Dunn. The original can do today with excavators If you want to reduce courses, bunkers are one of the greenkeeping team. bunker styling took place in and bulldozers is completely need fixing at Fixby? the most visual features, so “The greenkeeper is the early 1900s under the different and you saw that in maintenance on bunkers and you use that to create sign posts coming at it from a different direction of Herbert Fowler. In the courses that were built. Ben Turner, course manager, and give the golfer a clue point of view,” said William. attempting to restore the They got bigger because the Huddersfield follow it through to its logical about what they’re supposed “They look at it from the bunkers to that historic style, machines got bigger so you to be doing. maintenance perspective and William is following a fashion could move more earth. More “The biggest issue we had of the bunker is part of the conclusion, you’ll end up playing golf on a “Secondly, they’re a hazard in truth, bunkers aren’t easy to that sees clubs attempt to isn’t always better.” was washout. We had some hazard, with the long football pitch to punish shots. Assuming look after. I always say that per return their courses to their With the requirements of really wet summers and there fescues. they’ve made a good decision, square metre, bunkers are the ‘Golden Age’ origins. the greenkeeping team was significant washout. “I would have four guys but they’ve not executed the most expensive part of your “It’s known as the Golden understood as an important We’ve got high sand faces out there for six hours each, “I always say that bunkers “Golf is two things: it’s the shot, bunkers are there as that suit the character of this just fixing washout. have three main roles,” said physical execution of a good punishment. Bad golfers carry landscape and enable the Whereas now, if we do have the managing director of Swan golf shot, and the their hazards with them, so golfer to see what’s in front of any washout, it’s very Golf Designs. “Firstly, they are professionals will give you a they don’t need bunkers. But if them. We wanted to retain minimal and I can send one signposts for how to play the lesson to do that; but it’s also you’re a good player, you’ve that design but solve some of guy out, he can use the golf course. I’m not saying that about making a good decision made a good decision and the issues. When the back of a rake and it will every bunker has to be visible, about what shot you’re going you’re going to take an bunkers were washing out, take an hour and a half. but they play a role and it’s to play. Whether they can aggressive line and you don’t the drains were getting That enables us to select important that if the bunkers execute that shot, that’s get it quite right, then the clogged up. And when you jobs that are more aren’t visible, that you have different, but you should give bunker is there as a hazard. throw the sand back up, the worthwhile, rather than some sort of context to a golf them some clues about how “The third thing is they’re a characteristics of the sand spending time on what is hole so you can decide how to they should take on the visual feature, setting up the have changed and it doesn’t essentially a hazard. play it. challenge ahead. On inland aesthetic of the golf course. play for a week or so like it “I’m very keen to invest I’m not the kind of architect was. Some of them were the time we save into that’s about the high art side extremely old bunkers, landscape management. of design. We’re trying to dating back to the 1920s, the Over time, the views from create a landscape for people drains had backfilled and the golf course have been to enjoy the game and, weren’t serving a purpose. lost a little bit from self‑set particularly on inland courses, “Because of the erosion trees, particularly oak. Back everything’s green, so bunkers we were suffering over the in the 1980s the club give you an opportunity to years, the sand was getting planted a lot of pine trees to provide a point of blown to the edges and the create a corridor effect. differentiation. They provide bunkers were slowly We’re looking to reduce that visual interest, particularly on becoming bigger than they and encourage some of the inland courses where you should have been. There native trees in the don’t have the sea or dunes or was a desire at one time for understorey. We were anything like that.” everything to be cut short spending so much time on Therefore, the role of the and playable, but now we’re bunkers, but now we can course architect is to find a asking a few more questions find a time saving and compromise between those of the golfer. Not only is the spend that on landscape three functions, while also sand a hazard, but the area management.” William Swan considering the capabilities of Bunkers also give a course context

48 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 49 Sponsored content | Artificial surfaces //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Artificial surfaces | Sponsored content

ECO BUNKER | Home of Stableford Invests in Sustainable Bunker Drainage BRITISH SUGAR TOPSOIL | Selecting the right topsoil for bunker renovation

Water management is a hot topic, particularly for those involved in golf course management, as biblical rainfall events swamp large areas of the UK. It’s also a topic that has kept Civil Engineer and EcoBunker Ltd CEO Richard Allen very busy over the past 30 years. As Richard’s involvement in golf course design and construction has increased over the past 10 years, he has realised that some of the skills learned on land development schemes have become very useful. ‘Having supported hundreds of

successful planning applications with EcoBunker at Bromborough: Similar design style will be used at The Glamorganshire drainage, flooding and water management strategies and designs, I including those that are very flat and on design; combining a cost effective liner appreciate how challenging it can be to heavy soils. Their current, ongoing with EcoBunker’s exclusive patent pending deliver solutions that satisfy the project at The Glamorganshire GC is a advanced edge design to create a fully Where the partial renovation or complete constraints imposed by the developer on good case in point. sealed tank. Also featured are subtle new reconstruction of a bunker is required, one hand and the regulatory authorities The home of the Stableford scoring contours to manage surface water flow, selecting the right topsoil for the on the other. Space, or lack of it when system, Glamorganshire GC, near maximum use of upcycled materials and a foundation of the job is essential. maximising land value, is usually a major Penarth was founded in 1890. Like many novel approach to irrigation and Regardless of whether a bunker has a constraining factor for delivering the quality parkland courses, the high maintainable drainage outlets. turf or sand face, its form, once most cost effective, sustainable drainage presentation of greens, tees and fairways Alongside EcoBunker Ltd and Richard re‑established, must hold its shape. solutions. Relatively speaking golf was not matched by their bunkers, and Allen (Engineer), the delivery team Whilst the chosen topsoil should be courses enjoy more space. This has been poor drainage was one of several issues. comprises James Edwards (Architect), free‑draining, a certain amount of silt and a liberating factor, enabling me to design Following masterplan work by architect and Paul Davies of Shaperight clay is a key component if that shape is to more cost effective, sustainable and Jonathan Gaunt, EcoBunker Ltd won the (Earthworks). This project commenced be maintained; and this is particularly award‑winning drainage solutions in that tender for the complete re‑design and with a free initial consultation, focussing important for the ‘lip’ on a sand faced arena’, said Richard. construction of all 60 bunkers. on both drainage and bunker bunker. The silt and clay content is also Bunker construction specialist, EcoBunker Ltd’s successful approach construction matters. EcoBunker Ltd important for moisture retention and EcoBunker Ltd is acutely aware of the promised four key areas for improvement: offers the same services and expertise to healthy turf growth in the summer potential for poor drainage and washouts 1. Better strategy, for a fairer and more other clubs who want to improve the months and throughout periods of in golf bunkers. When planning a exciting challenge; quality of their golf bunkers. For more drought, particularly so if irrigation BS3882:2015‑compliant and is, in fact, the turf has been very impressive ‑ the construction project, which is often 2. Improved aesthetics, re‑creating a information visit www.ecobunker.co.uk cannot be delivered to all areas of a golf tested above and beyond the minimum roots of the turf had anchored into the undertaken alongside a golf course coherent, old style parkland theme; course. Using a moisture‑retaining topsoil requirements of the British Standard. It is Landscape20 within one to two weeks of architect, EcoBunker Ltd always 3. Free draining, consistent playing for bunker reconstruction will help derived from the prime arable soils that being laid.” Article thoroughly assesses drainage constraints conditions and; brought to tomaintain the turf sward and prevent the are brought in on the sugar beet to British Landscape20 is available for delivery and opportunities before finalising the 4. Lower maintenance by design, careful you by immediate area around the edge of the Sugar factories from across East Anglia, in loose loads or bulk bags to locations in bunker design solution. They have found product specification and installation. bunker from breaking down. which are washed from the beet into the Midlands, East Anglia and the South that cost effective free draining bunker Effective, maintainable drainage will be Greenkeepers are always under settlement lagoons, dried and then East. For every bulk bag purchased* until solutions are possible on almost all sites, delivered by sustainable approach to pressure to maintain their courses’ screened to produce a contaminant‑free, September 2020, £1 will be donated to playability, even when carrying out major consistent product that has a low stone Perennial, the charity for all renovation of tees and bunkers. Selecting content, is free of pernicious weeds, and horticulturists. www.bstopsoil.co.uk

a topsoil that has good nutrient content promotes healthy and sustained growth * minimum order quantity applies will promote growth and speed up turf thanks to the nutrients provided by the establishment, which in turn will keep additional organic matter. any bunker ‘down time’ to a minimum. Landscape20 is used widely by In addition to the above attributes, the greenkeepers for bunker reconstruction chosen topsoil should comply, as a and renovation. Ely City Golf Club has minimum, with British Standard undertaken a comprehensive programme 3882:2015 for topsoil. This standard of bunker reconstruction using 560 requires that the topsoil is regularly and tonnes of Landscape20 to reconstruct a independently tested for contamination, total of 35 bunkers prior to turfing. The nutrient content, and other key Ely club was particularly impressed with indicators, giving greenkeepers the workability of the topsoil and the

reassurance that the material is safe to speed of turf establishment: Article brought to you by use and fit for purpose. “Landscape20’s sandy loam texture British Sugar TOPSOIL’s Landscape20 makes for a soil that is easy to handle and general purpose topsoil ‑ the perfect consolidate into the shape needed. The EcoBunker is compatible with all bunker liners, greatly reducing sand contamination blend of sand, silt and clay ‑ is establishment and subsequent growth of

The greenkeepers who attended the bunker camp

Fully Sealed System Durabunker with Better Billy Bunker at Littlehampton Durabunker ‘Bunker Camp’ Ben Homewood, one of the all our questions and I think we them in a live project and attendees on the Bunker Camp all left with a bit of a spring in introduce them to bunker commented “It was fantastic to our step having seen what we construction methods that are get such valuable ‘hands on’ helped achieve during the bringing benefits to the wider at Littlehampton Golf Club experience rather than just day” greenkeeping industry. The reading it from a text book or Rhydian added “Education ‘Fully Sealed Bunker System’ the internet. To learn about the is very much in my blood is beginning to draw a lot of latest developments in bunker having spent 15 years of my attention. We have seen technology was really career delivering training in demand for it grow Littlehampton, Durabunker combination of work‑and that the Bunker Camp was in 2017 to introduce synthetic guarantees to the whole valuable, and to actually have further and higher education. significantly since we first Ltd and Sparsholt College, college‑based learning and it turned into a reality. bunker faces to the golf club. system, so we commissioned an opportunity to work with It was a great opportunity to introduced the concept and recently collaborated to invite is through their association Michael explained the We had suffered with erosion Durabunker, as a licensed the product was great. The help the next generation of really believe it is the most local greenkeepers who are with Micheal Mead, course back story of the project, “We and instability problems on installer of Better Billy Bunker, staff on site were very greenkeepers gain some complete bunker construction also studying at the college, manager at Littlehampton GC, worked with Durabunker Ltd our bunkers for a long time to install the bunker liner and knowledgeable and answered valuable experience, involve system on today’s market. We to attend a one-day ‘Bunker and trialling ‘Durabunker’ the synthetic faces. Both have are fortunate to be positioned Camp’ focussing on the seemed an easy decision to performed fantastically for us Education is very much in my to offer the installation of design and construction of …it occurred to me that make. On speaking with giving a totally sealed system seamless liners such as Better typical links-style bunkers there was a potential tie‑in with Rhydian Lewis, founder of that has ticked all the boxes blood having spent 15 years of Billy Bunker and Rubber using Durabunker’s patented Durabunker Ltd, and the with regards performance and Crumb Liner in conjunction synthetic bunker technology. the apprentice greenkeepers at co-inventor of the design hugely reduced our bunker my career delivering training in Further with our synthetic edging Thirteen greenkeepers patents associated with maintenance” system. Our approach in terms attended the day, all getting Sparsholt College. synthetic bunker edging, we “When Rhydian explained and Higher Education. of educating young (and old) their hands dirty building realised that if we were to that Durabunker Ltd had greenkeepers is to present bunkers, and experiencing Michael Mead, course manager at Littlehampton invest in our bunkers. By become a BIGGA Education Rhydian Lewis, director, Durabunker Ltd options and information on first hand a live bunker introducing their synthetic Supporter it occurred to me our products and construction renovation in full swing. The The greenkeepers had hands on experience in the construction of ‘Durabunker’ synthetic revetted system, it would also that there was a potential methods in an objective bunker revetment. renovation itself involved the make sense to complete the tie‑in with the apprentice manner, enabling them to construction of 12 typically job by using a bunker liner, greenkeepers at Sparsholt make informed decisions links-style bunkers, with ensuring that our investment College. We currently have an for the benefit of their golf significant re-design work in new sand would be apprentice greenkeeper, Peter course and maintenance including re-grading of protected and our issues with Hampton, who attends the practices. The greenkeepers run‑offs and gathering areas, drainage in certain bunkers college and is studying for his that attended the Bunker strategic re-positioning of would also be addressed. We Level 2 Greenkeeping Camp will hopefully feel some bunkers and the discussed a few liner options qualification. When his tutor they walked away with a lot splitting of some larger single and decided on Better Billy visited for an assessment I more knowledge than they bunkers into multiple smaller Bunker Liner.” mentioned the project to him arrived with” bunkers. “We liked the idea of a and the idea of having some

Sparsholt College delivers perched water table and a greenkeepers attend for a day Working in partnership with Level 2 training and highly permeable and durable to get involved with a live apprenticeships for liner to match our synthetic bunker project. It was an idea greenkeepers, offering a bunker faces, giving long term he loved as did Rhydian. Final stages of Durabunker construction at Littlehampton GC

worried that I would be out of we have USGA spec greens At the end of the day it is still whatsoever. Plus, it helps that my depth,” he said. “I went throughout the whole course, the club really supports us.” from looking after just one the bottom greens are always turf and whether you are cutting Scott claims that the club’s surface which had a fairly behind. They leach more and huge respect for its staff consistent maintenance don’t seem to hold as many it at 5mm or 35mm it is still all about the makes his job that much regime to suddenly looking nutrients.” easier and he further believes after a multitude of different With this in mind Scott is quality of surface you are providing… that this is something that areas – each with their own forced into always starting his football clubs should take requirements. It was daunting renovation work on the notice of. at first, but I quickly bottom nine first to ensure “What I have noticed is discovered that there isn’t too that they have a head‑start competitors. Its tank‑mix helped him through a that greenkeepers are treated much of a difference.” over the top nine. partner, GoGreen Energy, is a somewhat difficult summer far better and that there is a “The science behind “It can be challenging but I concentrated bio‑stimulant, last year. lot more respect for a football groundsmanship is no can confidently say that I love formulated to assist plant “Last year, Aqua‑Zorb was greenkeeper than there is for different to the science behind my job,” he said. health and relieve stress a real saviour for us. I would a groundsman. In football, greenkeeping,” he continued. Scott’s passion and work symptoms. say that at least 90% of groundsmen play an integral “Both are really fast moving and ethic were rewarded two years “Every course is different courses in the UK would say role and they should be new products and technologies ago when he was promoted to and you have to work out what that the disease period for golf recognised a lot more. Maybe are coming out constantly. At the position of head is best for your site,” said was horrendous last year and at Premiership level there is a the end of the day it is still turf greenkeeper. Now, alongside Scott. “With iNTrench and a good wetting agent could lot more respect but in the and whether you are cutting it Sean Bennett – course GoGreen, we find that if we go have saved money on lower leagues, certainly from at 5mm or 35mm it is still all manager, the two of them at half rate (20l/ha) every two fungicides and relieved the the Championship down, it is about the quality of surface you have a very clear goal. weeks, then the greens seem drought stress. well known that groundsmen are providing – it doesn’t “We are a championship to hold the nutrients a lot “We had such intense heat are easily made scapegoats. matter if you are passing a course which used to be in the better. By applying it like this last year and Aqua‑Zorb still They tend to get the blame if football or putting a golf ball.” top 100 but not anymore we notice healthier greens worked incredibly well the pitch is slow or bobbly but Designed in 1926 by J. F. unfortunately. Quite simply our and also better longevity out considering we were generally that is because the Abercromby, one of the finest goal is to get back in there. I of the products. This tank‑mix frequently seeing players are made to train on British golf course designers think with Sean’s knowledge of has worked really well for us temperatures of 30°C plus. the pitch on a Friday before a

Scott Duff, head greenkeeper of the last century, Bovey managing a course, his drive and there has been a big “I feel we have been going game. It is out of the at Bovey Castle Castle’s 18‑hole and his passion, along with the improvement in the greens. through a massive transition groundsman’s control. championship golf course is improvements he wants to “In fact, we also use this period and we will continue to “In golf, the players, the challenging and surrounded make, I think it is very realistic. mix with the addition of see even more improvements staff ‑ they all seem to be a bit by the natural beauty of the “We are not a million miles seaweed on our tees if they to the course. The Sherriff more understanding, At the Dartmoor National Park. away but we still have a lot of need some instant colour‑up.” Amenity products have Castle greenkeepers are However, the course does not work to do and with people Scott also reported played a big role in the highly respected. Like come without obstacles. like David Chammings from excellent results from Sherriff success over the past couple everybody, we don’t always “Here on the Moors, we Sherriff Amenity on‑board Amenity’s Aqua‑Zorb 45 – a of years and I can’t fault the get it right, but you live by From Groundsman pretty much have two then this will only boost our unique wetting agent, which service from David your decisions and sometimes completely different courses. chances. David has really you get it wrong. If there is any We’ve got the bottom nine changed the way we hesitation then that is when holes which are situated down approach our feed you tend to make really bad in the valley with lots of water programmes and also some of mistakes, but once you have to Greenkeeper around them and in cooler the work we do out on the decided to do something then temperatures we experience a course because he draws up that is when you need to How the former football groundsman is pushing Bovey a lot of frost. At the same time, management plans which commit. It just helps if you on the top nine holes it will be concentrate on what we have the right level of support Castle back to the Top 100 Golf Courses completely frost free. In the should be doing throughout behind you.” summer when we are feeding certain periods of the year.” For further information, the greens, we will get a After consultation, David please contact Sherriff Four years ago, Scott Duff When I was in football completely different reaction recommended a tank mixture Amenity on 01638 721 888 or made the decision to switch to the top nine where it is at consisting of iNTrench fertiliser visit www.sherriffamenity.com football groundsmanship for groundsmanship, I had always least three degrees warmer 15.0.9 and GoGreen Energy greenkeeping. Now as head throughout the year. bio‑stimulant for the greens – greenkeeper at Bovey Castle wanted to try greenkeeping but to be “Even when we are cutting, two products which perfectly in Devon, he is succeeding in at the top we can take two and complement one another. his mission to help the club honest I was always worried that I would a half boxes of grass clippings iNTrench is a controlled get back into the Top 100 be out of my depth… off the greens but on the uptake nitrogen fertiliser Working in Golf Courses. bottom greens we are taking designed specifically for the partnership with Scott started his turf career just one box off. It is also really needs of professional sports in football at Torquay United hard to achieve a consistent turf. It gives up to ten weeks of Bovey Castle is aiming to re-enter the FC before venturing into was quite rightly nervous groundsmanship, I had always green speed across all improved blade colour and a Top 100 Golf Courses greenkeeping. He admits that about making the transition. wanted to try greenkeeping eighteen holes. higher quality turf with 66% it was a huge decision and “When I was in football but to be honest I was always “Therefore, even though the nitrogen rate of leading

The mature downland course at Purley Downs Golf Club near Croydon in Surrey is renowned for its rolling fairways and magnificent views over London. Designed over a century ago, its sweeping natural contours can be challenging for golfers — but the club’s new Baroness LM2700 five‑unit fairway mower takes the slopes and undulations in its stride, consistently delivering the quality of cut and finish that are so important to Course Manager, Richard Webber. The course sits on free‑draining chalk downland, so rarely closes except when there is snow. The 6,300‑yard, par‑70 course was designed by J.H.Taylor back in 1904 to make the most of the site’s natural beauty. It’s a tranquil setting, some 500 feet above sea level — a vantage point from which golfers can look out over the whole of London with the arch at Wembley Stadium, the London Eye, the Shard, the Gherkin and Canary Wharf all clearly visible. “I hadn’t seen a Baroness in action for a few months, but we are confident Richard came to Purley Downs five before but had heard many good things that the ease of maintenance it offers will years ago from Copthorne Golf Club in from other course managers, especially mean a lot less downtime and lower Sussex and has overseen a programme of about the cutting units. whole‑life service costs for us going investment to improve the course since “High quality cut and finish were top forward.” his arrival. His team has grown from five of my list of requirements and the results The course and surrounding land to seven and, under the guidance of we got with the Baroness were second to owned by the club has been designated course architect, Alan Walker, extensive none. It was definitely a good decision.” a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) work has been carried out on the bunkers The LM2700 features Baroness’ due to the wide variety of flora and fauna and greens. Work has also begun as part signature reel and bedknife cutting units present on the site. “A day doesn’t pass of a 20‑year woodland management which are designed to stay sharper and without seeing deer on the course,” says plan to remove some of the trees that last longer, reducing maintenance costs Richard, “and we have badgers, foxes and have sprung up over the years on parts of and downtime. many different birds and butterflies. the course, allowing it to revert to its “We have found that the Baroness is “While golf and maintaining the original chalk downland profile. straight on cut ‑ you don’t have to keep quality of our fairways and greens are The club has also made big adjusting it. It is really productive too. It is certainly our priorities, Purley Downs investments in its machinery too. As well quick over the ground, which saves us a lot is living proof that these as the new Baroness LM2700 fairway of time, without losing the quality of the objectives can be met while mower the club also bought two Kubota cut. It is also great at following the contours still protecting and tractors, all sourced from Lister Wilder. of our fairways, producing a quality finish encouraging When it came to replace the club’s old without scalping,” says Richard, who has wildlife.” fairway mower, Richard and his team left also been impressed by how easy it is to no stone unturned in determining the best operate and maintain the LM2700. machine for the job. “We looked at all the “Everyone enjoys driving the Baroness options available and tested a number of and it is comfortable to work on. It is mowers to see how they performed on our also much simpler to maintain fine downland turf and undulating than other mowers we looked terrain,” says Richard. “Each machine we at, which is a big plus for Working in partnership with trialled went through a formal appraisal us. We have only process and the Baroness LM2700 came had the Richard Webber, course manager at Purley Downs out firmly on top.” LM2700

56 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd Points of interest | Around the Green ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Around the Green | Points of interest TPC Sawgrass Get in touch National with our local AROUND THE GREEN Thank you so much and I can’t Membership wait to get there!” Services team

The six members are: Scotland & Northern Ireland 2020 Golf Environment / Alex Brougham – deputy head greenkeeper, Chairman Trentham Park GC Robert / Peter Lewis – greenkeeper, Patterson Royal Liverpool GC Awards finalists revealed / Edward Irvine – deputy John Young head greenkeeper, Trump 07776 242 120 International Aberdeen johnyoung@ National / Ben Hunter – deputy bigga.co.uk course manager, The The 2020 finalists are Final two members Peter Lewis, greenkeeper at Richmond GC Northern announced for Players Royal Liverpool Golf Club and / Mark Tucker – head Chairman Championship Yannick Weber, Deputy greenkeeper, Neath GC Environmental Golf Course of Jack The team of BIGGA Course Manager at the / Yannick Weber – deputy the Year Hetherington members who, courtesy of renowned Cape Kidnappers course manager, Cape John Deere, will travel to TPC Golf Club in New Zealand who Kidnappers GC, New / Warrington Golf Club Sandra Raper Sawgrass in March to join the will represent BIGGA’s Zealand / Kington Golf Club 07866 366 966 agronomy team for the ‘Fifth International membership. / Saunton Golf Club sandra@bigga. Major’ is complete. Yannick said “Events like / Effingham Golf Club co.uk The Players Championship these keep our industry / Nairn Dunbar Golf Links is one of the iconic events in buzzing, enhance camaraderie, Central England golf and taking their places on professionalism and spread Conservation Greenkeeper of Chairman the volunteer team for it are motivation and passion all over the Year Andrew Northern Region member the turf managing community. Smith The shortlisted finalists for the 2020 become the leading accolade for / John Milne – Rothes Golf Club Golf Environment Awards (GEAs) have ecological and environmental excellence / Neil Sherman – Ipswich Golf Club Regional Conference Roger Butler been announced. within the golf industry. Many golf (Purdis Heath) South West & South Wales 07525 593 359 The GEAs celebrate 25 years in 2020, greenkeepers tell me the awards / Richard Mullen – Banchory Golf roger@bigga. they recognise golf clubs and individuals represent something to aspire to, they Club Somerset County Cricket club co.uk that strive to undertake environmental provide an opportunity to market the / Les Rae – Montrose Golf Club was again the host venue for best practice. good works they do. the South West & South South West & Ecology consultants from STRI spent “For me the awards represent a growing Outstanding Environmental Wales Region Conference. South Wales August and September visiting qualifying community that all come together at the Project of the Year Regional Chairman Steve Chairman clubs that applied for the awards before awards celebrations discussing works and Lloyd hosted a thought- Steve Lloyd painstakingly whittling them down to 17 passing on ideas. Anyone is welcome to / Trevose Golf & Country Club provoking and informative day finalists and five Home Unions finalists. attend the awards, and one thing is certain / Dundonald Links for around 120 local members. Golf Environment Awards judge, you will leave inspired by the great work / Craignure Golf Club All the speakers were current Tracey Walker Rowan Rumball, said: “This year was clubs are doing.” / Clitheroe Golf Club and former course managers 07841 948 110 exceptionally difficult, and we have had All finalists receive free entry into the but the topics were incredibly tracey.walker some amazing and very worthy entrants. I Foundation Award in Amenity Operation Pollinator diverse. @bigga.co.uk have seen some superb projects and Horticulture course, recognised by BASIS, First up BIGGA Chairman, many clubs are now looking beyond the and managed by STRI, as well as CPD / Cumberwell Park Scott Reeves, gave a brief South East confines of their own club boundaries.” credits. The lucky winners of the GEAs / Banchory Golf Club introduction to the work of the The South West and South Wales Regional Conference was well attended Chairman The winners will be announced at the will also be able to enjoy a European Golf / Ufford arkP Woodbridge National Board before Callum Peter Smith Golf Environment Awards Ceremony on & Environment Trip of a Lifetime to / St Andrews Links Trust Wark, making his first health which definitely with determination and

Wednesday 22 January 2020, at The Portugal. presentation as course connected with many in the innovation. The final speaker Crown Hotel in Harrogate. Tickets for the STRI would like to thank all the golf Home Unions National Awards manager, gave attendees an audience. BIGGA Vice- was former Regional awards, which includes a three-course clubs that entered but didn’t make the insight into the concept, President and owner of Chairman Steve Chappell Clive Osgood meal and drinks, can be purchased, email final shortlist along with Golf / Market Harborough Golf Club vision, design and build of the Portmore Golf Park, Colin who entertained delegates 07841 948410 [email protected] for further Environment Award partners and / Scotscraig Golf Club exciting JCB Golf and Webber, revised and updated with the story of his new role cliveosgood@ details. sponsors who continue to support and / Ashburnham Golf Club Country Club project. his ‘From Milk to Members’ at Royal Bled Golf Club in yahoo.co.uk Head of Ecology at STRI, Bob Taylor, promote the awards year-on-year: The / Bingley St Ives Golf Club Former National Board presentation last seen a Slovenia. Kerry Phillips said: “I cannot believe it’s 25 years since R&A, BIGGA, The Golf Club Manager, / Diss Golf Club member Rob Welford then decade ago. Colin’s story is A big thank you to all the 07715 672568 we first set up the Golf Environment Tillers Turf, Ransomes Jacobsen, gave a brave and compelling inspiring and an exemplary Regional Patrons who kerry@bigga. Awards. Moreover, the awards have Wiedenmann, Aquatrols and Syngenta. talk on the subject of mental case of what can be achieved supported the event superbly. co.uk

58 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 59 Points of interest | Around the Green ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Around the Green | Points of interest

It’s a BIGGA Photo Competition The 12 photographs selected for fantastic the BIGGA Calendar 2020 are: feeling to have won such a tough 2019. The winner… January May September and prestigious Charlie Lacey, Aidan Wright, Jake Austin, Camberley Heath Camberley Heath Hankley Common competition; all of BIGGA is proud to reveal the BIGGA members who voted “It’s a fantastic feeling to was amazed at the attention to winner of our annual for their favourite image have won such a tough and detail he was applying to February June October the images were photographic competition, through social media, prestigious competition; all of strimming the bunkers. The Shaun Cunningham, Andrew Bate, James Breeze, stunning and with a spectacular image of receiving 277 likes on the the images were stunning and low morning sun helped to Mortonhall The Hesketh Huddersfield early morning strimming at BIGGA Facebook page and anyone of them could have back-light the subject and anyone of them The Hesketh in Southport another 77 on BIGGA’s won. After entering give it a real atmospheric feel. March July November claiming the top prize. Instagram page. greenkeeping only nine I only had my phone with me could have won Joe Simpson, Graeme Roberts, Ryan Norman, Andrew Bate’s image of As competition winner, months ago I wanted to but it coped really well with Ipswich Swinley Forest Stowmarket course preparation at the links greenkeeper Andrew will approach the competition the conditions.” Andrew Bate, The Hesketh was praised by the judges for receive a brand new Apple with a view to showing a In addition, 12 photographs showing a realistic and iPad 32GB and a framed print greenkeeper going about one from among the 24 finalists April August December beautiful look at of his winning photograph, to of the many daily tasks that go were selected, based upon Alex Brougham, Paul Connolly, George Morley, greenkeeping, with dirt and be presented at the BIGGA towards presenting a golf the social media voting from Trentham Park Ralston The Dyke debris caught in spectacular Welcome Celebration at course. BIGGA members, and these detail. BTME 2020. “I was out with my will form the BIGGA Desktop The image certainly Andrew told us a little colleague Dave Williams on Calendar 2020, supported by Thank you to everyone who entered the BIGGA Photographic Competition 2020. We’ll be captured the attention of the more about winning: the day I took the image and Syngenta. launching the competition once again early in the New Year, so get snapping and good luck!

WINNER: June January February March April May July August September October November December

PUTTS Brian Hillen talking at the West of Scotland event ON COURSE QualitY oF cut, Residential Visit , South West control

@DOGS_OF_GREENKEEPING_BIGGA reliability

Name: Klaxon Breed: Old English & - November proved hugely Industry partners such as support successful for BIGGA in The R&A and GEO Sheepdog Scotland with the Learning & Foundation provided Owner: Dave Barnes Development Programme presentations along with the EclipsE 322 is the Visiting Bristol City FC Course: Sunningdale creating a fantastic many from course managers Heath opportunity for greenkeepers and BIGGA members. Favourite treat: Biscuits to continue to develop their A new twist to the clear choice professionalism. programme was to provide Favourite spot on the JamEs HutcHison, Head Greenkeeper Working together, the BIGGA members with their course: Clubhouse Castle stuart Golf links region and sections provided first opportunity to present to Naughtiest moment: six events around the country their peers, well done to Bob Running around the Jacobsen. Built for your success which, combined with the Meikle (Crail); Richard course Members attended a course walk similar event in Northern Jenkinson (Golf House Club at Long Ashton GC Ireland recently, meant over - Elie); Jamie Martin (Gifford); 200 greenkeepers Brian Hillen (Drumpellier); Several members from experienced the programme Scott Davidson (Cathcart the South Coast Section and enjoyed presentations Castle); Stewart Brown who attended the Regional from peers and round-table (Western Gailes); Richard Conference incorporated a discussions with our partners. Johnstone (Nairn Dunbar) and residential trip and visited Events were held in all David Rumbles (Elgin) who Richard Mullen Long Ashton GC and Scottish Sections with two provided exceptional talks. @BGCAgronomy Bristol City FC to see all taking place in the North The region’s next key the amazing work going on Section. Two were held on education event is the at these sites. consecutive days each week Scottish Golf Industry Many thanks to James for three weeks with some Conference at Dunblane Braithwaite and Dan Sparks speakers attending multiple Doubletree Hotel on Tuesday for showing us around and events. 3rd March 2020. giving up your time.

Volunteers > Visit us at: Wanted! @BIGGALTD btMe

South West of Scotland stand 422 Letters of thanks from In 2020, Kilmarnock Schoolchildren following Barassie Golf Club are my talk with them From breathtaking performance and a drive hosting the Women’s about the greenkeeping to innovate, to people and support you know Amateur Championships profession. Amazing you can trust, everything we do is built for and are in need of some to get a response and your success. volunteers to help with great feedback. If morning course set up. If one considers it as an Experience what complete dedication feels anyone is interested in occupation then that’s like. Experience Jacobsen. volunteering then please success! contact Rob Tosh on either @BIGGALtd @RandA > Book a test drive now at: 07907300540 or @ScottishGolf jacobsenbuilt.com [email protected] Richard Johnstone talking at the Highlands event

62 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd

ADS - CASTLE STUART AD 2 WITH BTME BADGE - AW.indd 1 04/11/2019 16:40 From your association | Around the globe //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Around the globe | From your association AROUND THE GLOBE Russell Andrew Anderson | The Scandinavian | Denmark

How would you describe the style of course you manage and what is your club’s claim to fame?

At The Scandinavian, we have two golf The Scandinavian greenkeeping team courses that are very natural in their setting. Both courses wind their way Greenkeeper training in Denmark is to Why do you choose to be a BIGGA important friendships have been made through forests, grasslands and many a high standard, and, like training in the member? through greenkeeping and BIGGA. natural ponds and wetlands. The wild UK, students are normally in full‑time Through these people, and they know natural feel of the land is complemented employment, and attend blocks of I chose to be a BIGGA member 32 who they are, I have learned the true using the latest technology and modern education at an approved college for years ago as I was advised it would help meaning of friendship and support. course construction quality. several weeks at a time. me develop my career. This has certainly

Our claim to fame would probably be Golf de L’Isle Adam Most of our team are educated been true, and is the reason why I remain What tip would you give British that we are the only members’ club in greenkeepers or gardener equivalent. We a member today. greenkeepers that you have learnt? Continental Europe with both our golf give our unqualified team members the courses consistently ranked in the top chance to get the qualifications if they What have you learnt through being a The only tip I can give British 40. Even our members can’t agree which wish, which only has a positive impact member of BIGGA? greenkeepers is to stick together in the they like best. The Scandinavian course when we are recruiting. We have one reduced chemical era that is the future. It apprentice in education and we actively BIGGA has been a big part of my will not be an easy transition, but I think How does greenkeeping in Denmark How does the availability of resources, equipment, supplied by Reesink support all our team where possible, if working life, whether it was attending local the Danes have proved that the pain is vary from the UK? such as chemicals or machinery, impact Denmark. On the machinery side, this they wish to undertake further training section events or BTME. less when shared and surprising solutions what you are able to achieve? gives us the best possible chance to and development activities. Many of my longest and most can always be found. I think that the greenkeepers in achieve the standards we strive for. Denmark are incredibly skilled at utilising In Denmark there are governmental What interaction do you have with their resources and budgets effectively to restrictions on the use of chemicals, but What turfgrass species do you grow on golfers at your club and how are you operate at a high standard. there is not a total ban, as some may your course and how are they impacted perceived by them? As a result of strict government believe. There are approved weed killers, by your climate? regulations, Danish greenkeepers fungicides, pesticides and growth The Scandinavian is slightly different probably lead the way in Europe retardants, but we are limited on the The courses were sown just over from a traditional golf club, in that I report regarding non‑chemical prevention and amount we can use and where we can 10 years ago. The greens are a blend of directly to the company CEO and not to treatment of turf diseases. The regulation use them. Tee‑2Green creeping bentgrass A4 G2 the golf club board or to a committee in this area is one of the most significant Some courses do have total chemical G6, a rye fescue blend on fairways and within the club. This means that my differences to greenkeeping in the UK. I bans, depending on local restrictions, tees and fescue roughs. interaction with members is probably less only see this as a positive, and I have and these greenkeepers are doing an We have developed this over the formal than it would be in the UK. learned a lot from my Danish colleagues. amazing job. years, introducing more current On a day‑to‑day basis, I meet and For example, growth retardants are bentgrasses – mainly the shade tolerant interact with members and guests out on How does the weather affect your work? only allowed on greens, and with one of crystal blue links, which is working very the golf courses, stopping to chat with the weed killers we are only allowed well for us. them and answer any questions they may Being in Scandinavia, our work is enough product for one hectare. This Since the drought of last season, have. I am also a member of the golf club heavily influenced by the weather. In our means we must hand spray fairways, of working closely with Barenbrug we have and meet many of our members this way. area, we experience weather extremes which I have 36 hectares, but you get increased the ryegrass content of our On a more formal basis, we ranging from freezing snow‑covered used to it and it means we use very little fairways, mainly with their RPR mix, pro‑actively communicate with members winters to the four‑month drought and product, which can only be good. which we find much more drought and using short informational videos, written high temperatures of last season. I must All our chemical usage must be disease tolerant for our site. course updates and invite members to admit that it is never boring and it is registered officially with the government, participate in course walks and tours of always challenging and satisfying trying done through a green data website. What is greenkeeper training like in the greenkeeping facility. I think the to grow and maintain our courses in this I am fortunate to have a very Denmark and how does that impact members would perceive me as being climate. up‑to‑date fleet of mainly Toro recruitment? very passionate about my work. After the drought of last season The drought

64 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 65 Points of interest | Industry news ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Industry news | Points of interest Toro launches all-electric greens mower SPARE INDUSTRY NEWS PARTS IOG spots skills ‘time bomb’ Campey

Independent research by the Institute of Groundsmanship has identified a “skills and recruitment time bomb”. Research findings have highlighted a serious decline in the number of young Toro Greensmaster eTriFlex 3360 Campey Turf Care Systems people embarking on a career in has brought in new product groundsmanship. With over 40% of the Toro has unveiled the sales manager at Toro’s UK still maintaining what makes specialist, Jason Moody, workforce over the age of 50, IOG chief Greensmaster eTriFlex 3360, distributor, Reesink Turfcare, Toro machines so unique - a to cover Wales, the executive Geoff Webb said this is a the machinery said: “It’s easy to see why Toro superior quality of cut.” Midlands and West worrying trend. manufacturer’s first all- is calling the Greensmaster Toro claim the electric Cheshire. He added: “The report also highlights electric greens mower. eTriFlex the most advanced battery reduces noise and Jason brings almost how recruitment, especially of young The ride-on uses electric ride-on greens mower ever. minimises impact on the three decades of people, is a critical issue and it must be components for traction, “The technology presented environment, while the lack of experience to the Campey said that while the Young IOG initiative is steering, lifting and cutting in this machine, particularly hydraulics removes the risk of team, having started in the increasingly spreading the word among and utilises a Lithium-ion the hybrid technology, is a any leakage. industry at 16-years-old as schoolchildren about careers in battery and Kawasaki twin prime example of Toro’s ability The reduced noise levels is an apprentice at Royal St groundcare - especially through its cylinder 14hp air-cooled to deliver products that meet intended to allow greenstaff to David’s, where he stayed Schools into Stadia programme - it is engine with a reduced speed customer needs perfectly. circumvent noise regulations, for seven years. clear that everyone in the industry must of 2400rpm. “The reduced noise brings allowing work to be He also worked at Botley also do more to ensure we have a Jeff Anguige, national with it a host of benefits while completed earlier in the day. Park Hotel and spent five ‘pipeline’ of competent grounds staff to Geoff Webb, IOG chief executive years as course manager at meet demands at every level.” Canterbury GC. Jason also According to the findings of the IOG’s on the playing programmes of sports.” Doran Consultancy, the comprehensive Ernest Doe expands territory for Jacobsen worked at Plassey Leisure industry-wide survey, ‘Groundsmanship The research findings show that two of survey involved desktop research, in Park, Wrexham. - Sports Vital Profession’, the UK sports every five grounds professionals are over addition to an online survey and one-to- Ernest Doe & Sons Ltd. will hosted a golf day at Ipswich “The golf day at Ipswich turf groundscare sector employs more 50 years old and 20% of those could one interviews across sports played on now serve as the authorised Golf Club. Golf Club was a great than 26,000 people, is supported by at retire within five years. grass and artificial surfaces, as well as distributor for Ransomes and “During these two days, we opportunity for everyone to ECHO blower least 37,000 volunteers and is worth Geoff added: “With less than one in horse racing. Jacobsen turf equipment in wanted our local customers play at a fantastic local club more than a staggering £1 billion a year to five groundscare staff below the age of Additionally, the research showed that Suffolk and Norfolk and Ernest Doe staff to see the on a course which was the economy. 30 and our discovery that some almost a quarter of head grounds staff territories, expanding its full capability of the factory excellently prepared by “Local authority austerity and budget employers are choosing not to recruit feel stressed or under pressure from relationship with the brands. and what we do here,” said Graham Brumpton and his cuts have had a damaging effect on new, replacement staff when an existing inadequate budgets, increasing Ernest Doe will sell and William Carr, director of sales team, and was a great finish to grassroots pitches,” said Geoff. “The member leaves or retires, we have a crisis commercial pressures and an service Ransomes and for Ransomes Jacobsen. “A lot a really successful two days.” steady deterioration in the quality and looming,” unmanageable workload. Jacobsen equipment from of people who know of us don’t For Ernest Doe, expanding the overplay of many pitches is impacting Conducted by Myriad Consulting and Visit www.iog.org for more. three branches in both Suffolk always understand the scope their territory into Suffolk and and Norfolk. Ernest Doe of the operation, and by Norfolk strengthens their ECHO has launched the already represents the brands showing them around, we can already established most powerful backpack STRI forms alliance with Surface Performance in Essex, Herts, Beds, Cambs, give them a first-hand look into relationship with the mower blower in its class. Kent, Surrey, East and West the manufacturing process. and machinery manufacturer. The PB-8010 is part of STRI Group has struck an alliance with accredited testing and certification for Sussex. the ECHO X ‘Best in Class’ turf testing house Surface Performance. FIFA, World Rugby, FA and ITF standards. Ransomes and Jacobsen range and provides an The partnership will enable the pair to The agreement will support the equipment is designed and industry-leading blowing provide sports surface design and testing delivery of a range of innovative testing manufactured by Ransomes force of 44N for better services for artificial sports surfaces. products and data-driven services, Jacobsen Limited, a Textron performance and STRI head of business development, including STRI’s new sports surface Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company. productivity. Andrew Brooker, said: “The agreement performance tracker, TurfSync. Ransomes Jacobsen Limited The 79.9cc two-stroke ensures our respective businesses can Surface Performance director, Callum operates as part of the Textron engine produces an air provide a well-rounded service to our Reid, said: “This is an exciting opportunity Specialized Vehicles Inc. volume of 1,818m3/h and an existing and future clients. We are for our team to work alongside STRI in the business. airspeed of 211mph. pleased to be working with Surface UK and globally. With more venues Ernest Doe recently A lightweight carbon Performance to deliver both services to offering both natural turf and synthetic showcased Ransomes fibre frame and fan case are the global sports surface market.” fields, having the two companies working Jacobsen’s Ipswich factory to intended to make the blower Surface Performance has provided together makes complete sense.” staff and customers, and Demonstrating easier to carry and use.

66 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd @BIGGALtd | December 2019 | Greenkeeper International | 67 Points of interest | Industry news ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// Industry news | Points of interest Green Room Podcast Live Stage We are bringing the Green Room Podcast to life at BTME! In the Blue Zone will be a live stage hosted by Curtis Tyrrell RED MG CGCS of the popular Course Reports video blog. Curtis was superintendent of Medinah Country Club during the ‘Miracle of Medinah’ Ryder Cup in 2012. We have lined up some fantastic guests to chat with Curtis and bring the Podcast feel to BTME. Topics include: DIESEL

Tuesday 21 Jan: / The Solheim Cup / Water and its effects on golf / The Open at Royal Portrush operations UPDATE / Mental Health / Meet the Presidents / Golf Course Architecture / Automated Machinery and / Working Overseas its Future in the Greenkeeping Industry Wednesday 22 Jan: Look out for the finalised Use of Red Diesel in Tractors Driving on schedule on social media, the / Working with the European BTME App and BIGGA the Road in the Amenity Sector Tour website. Due to a recent number of agriculture, horticulture or inspections by HM Revenue forestry On the podcast this month: and Customs (HMRC), it has / cutting verges bordering Episode 25: Royal Cinque Ports course manager been identified that a number public roads James Bledge gives us an insight into life at the of golf courses and landscape / cutting hedges or trees historic Kent links. maintenance contracting bordering public roads or tending flowers, lawns, shrubs white diesel; there are caveats companies use red diesel bordering verges which and trees, and harvesting to this: if your vehicle is Episode 26: Tamsin Williams and Francesca (Rebated fuel) in Tractors that border public roads flowers, fruits and vegetables unlicensed according to the Bayliss, two young scientists who are shaping the are registered with the DVLA / gritting roads, including for food (or animal fodder) and DVLA and or SORN (Statutory direction of disease control in sportsturf. Curtis Tyrell MG CGCS and Steve Chappell at BTME 2017 (Driving and Vehicle Licensing travel to and from where for ornament, as well as treating Off Road Notifications) where Agency) taxed (Nil rated) and gritting takes place, and for and enriching the soil and the vehicle is not kept or used insured for use on the road, the collection of equipment controlling weeds and pests. on public roads, or it is a Back to basics when they should only be and material for gritting” However, they do not mowing machines (a complete using white diesel (Fully duty You may interpret that the regard as horticulture the vehicle) not an attachment you This was the clear message management plans (IWMs) Red Tractor standard in food organisations operating and paid fuel). terms agriculture, horticulture landscaping and maintenance can use red diesel. emerging from a panel across all areas of amenity, and agriculture. Those providing resources in the Misinterpretation and lack and forestry apply to the of grassy recreational areas, Please check the link to discussion on amenity together with a template to operating to the Standard will amenity sector by provision of knowledge is apparent and amenity sector, after all the such as playing fields and golf ensure you comply. management, held at SALTEX help in their construction. The be members of an approved of a robust and transparent in many cases the assumption Health and Safety Executive courses, or the grassed areas For further information you recently, and chaired by John Forum, subject to funding, is and audited assurance scheme standard is made that as it is an (HSE) regard the Amenity of parks that are made can contact HMRC by Moverley from the Amenity additionally hoping in the recognised by the Standard. John Moverley, Amenity Agricultural tractor, it may use Sector within the Agricultural available for walks, picnics telephone: - 0300 200 3700 Forum. next year to produce similar Forum Chairman, said ‘’the red diesel and if they are using and Horticultural bracket, the and general recreation” or email via an excise general Whilst plant protection guidance for integrated The Amenity Standard is management of our amenity it in a horticultural sector Chemical Regulations If you fall in this work enquiry form products continue to have a disease management designed to: areas is essential and (Amenity) they are compliant. Directorate (CRD) regard classification, you must not use www.tax.service.gov.uk/ role in managing pests, weeds approaches. important and impacts on This is not the case. Amenity within the red diesel and should only use shortforms/form/CITEX_EGEF and diseases, the need to take The Forum has also worked / Provide an industry every UK citizen every day. Using the HMRC website Horticulture sector under the an integrated approach to the closely with the sector to benchmark The Amenity Forum promotes and the Excise Notice 75: fuels Field of Use definition on management of amenity develop the Amenity / Provide a basis for best practice and organisations for use in vehicles Updated 12 pesticide labels, HMRC do not. spaces is equally important. Standard. This will be fully continuous improvement who support this are March 2019, HMRC have within the The emphasis must be on launched at the start of 2020 / Focus on quality as an committed to the highest www.gov.uk/government/ excise notice addressed this preventative actions, ensuring and is seen as a game changer objective professional standards seeking publications/excise-notice- with a questions and answers all aspects of soil for the sector. Those operating / Provide assurances about to produce safe, healthy 75-fuel-for-road-vehicles/ section in the appendix management, seed selections, in amenity management at the quality of the approved spaces fit for purpose. excise-notice-75-fuel-for- “Q3. What are purposes cultivations and appropriate the Standard will demonstrate organisation and BIGGA is working with the road-vehicles relating to horticulture? on-going management their professionalism and maintenance of the amenity Amenity Forum to ensure the In which it states under In their view horticulture is routines are in place to re-assure all involved that space golf greenkeeping part of the section “8.3 Tractors- to use the cultivation and minimise impact and ensure practices undertaken on that / Ensure that quality Amenity Sector can engage red diesel, your tractor must management of gardens plant protection products, amenity space follow an assurance scheme with the Standard. be an agricultural tractor (including vegetable plots, when applied, are targeted integrated approach and meet operators recognised under designed and constructed allotments and market gardens, and have maximum impact. all requirements on safety and this Standard use auditors primarily for use otherwise but also flowerbeds, trees, The Amenity Forum has good practice. with technical knowledge than on roads. You must not shrubberies and ornamental Scan the QR code for further produced a guidance The Amenity Standard is a and experience of the use the tractor on public roads lawns in public parks). By information from HMRC document to assist in bespoke quality management sector concerned for activities other than for: cultivation and management, producing integrated weed standard very much like the / Promote confidence in / purposes relating to they mean growing and

LOOKING FOR A SPECIFIC PRODUCT OR BUYER’S GUIDE SERVICE? Your club’s Visit the Machinery Wanted Irrigation BIGGA Directory for Invicta Groundcare a comprehensive list Equipment Ltd most valuable of products and services. www.bigga.org.uk or We buy used golf scan the QR Code course machinery asset is you Contact the Sales Team on For all your golf, sportsturf and Contact: Steve Dyne landscape irrigation needs. 01347 833 800 or BIGGA members have access to free human resources [email protected] to Tel: 01474 874 120 place your advert help and advice to make your workplace a more Email: [email protected] Buy online at www.lws.uk.com Tel 0345 230 9697 professional and positive environment. Our advisors can help from the very early stages through to the Construction Turf conclusion of the matter with unlimited telephone and email advice available.

We have high quality turf grades to suit the particular needs of a golf course including greens, tees, fairways, bunker revetting, high NEW PRODUCT For further information and to traffic areas around the course, plus Wildflower turf and Sedum Mat. OR SERVICE? contact the service email 2019 brings LT8 Festival PLUS to our range. Nationwide delivery available To advertise contact [email protected] 01904 448675 | [email protected] www.turf.co.uk the Sales Team on Alternatively, call 0330 332 2636. 01347 833 800 or Waste and wash water GB Golf Course Services [email protected] Course Construction & Renovation Work Green, Tee & Bunker Remodelling & Drainage Works Artificial Greens, Tees & Pathways Contact Graham Baker T: 07977 547 591 | E: [email protected] vvv

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70 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd

00075 GI Magazine Fillers A4.indd 6 21/11/2019 15:05 Useful information | Recruitment | More opportunities online, visit www.bigga.org.uk //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

USA – Quality trainee greenkeepers wanted for Ambitious? From trainee vacancies to senior management roles, exciting experience in America new greenkeeping job opportunities are added daily to Get the Quality trainee greenkeepers wanted for For more information, please complete the BIGGA’s online recruitment pages. management training on the best golf initial enquiry below and include a courses in the USA. Must be enthusiastic clean‑cut photo and CV: https://top.osu. BIGGA’s website receives 1.6 million page views per year and motivated and have at least NVQ 2 or edu/internships/inbound‑application one year of full‑time turfgrass education. Check out this YouTube video about our and 55% of those are to our careers pages. Visit Good wages and plenty of experience on programme https://vimeo.com/320732596 www.bigga.org.uk for our latest opportunities and find out top courses with great managers using the password Syngenta / Programmes from 6 to 18 months. Visit our website: www.top.osu.edu more about advertising your position. / Help with travel plans, visas and insurance. / Placement and accommodation arranged For more information call / PGA Tournament Experience 01347 833 800 or / Optional turf classes available email [email protected]

Seasonal greenkeeping Greenkeepers | Hollandsche Sweden 2020 Greenkeeping Maatschappij Interactive Management Agency Limited specialises in the placement of sports turf Hollandsche Greenkeeping Maatschappij / Uniform included professionals. Our client, GML Sport manages an expanding portfolio of golf courses across is looking for for seasonal and full-time / Accommodation temporarily available or the Stockholm and Gothenburg regions of southern Sweden. greenkeepers at various courses including help with finding accommodation What we’re looking for What we offer The International, Haarlemmermeersche Please send your application with CV via / Greenkeepers of all levels of experience / Insight and experience of agronomics in a Golfcourse and Golfcourse Purmerend. email to Ingrid Martens: [email protected] and positions Scandinavian climate These courses are located 10 minutes from Start date between 1 March and 15 April / Formal qualifications in turf management / Competitive rates of pay aligned to Amsterdam. 2020 are beneficial experience We are looking for highly motivated workers / Experience with machinery or irrigation are / FREE ACCOMMODATION including bills who have a passion for the industry and are desirable and WIFI looking to further develop their career. / Flexibility and positivity a must / Work clothing included / Frequent job rotation Xtra / 6 month contracts starting spring 2020 / Wages dependant on qualifications and Send your CV to info@interactive‑management.co.uk or visit experience / Training on a wide range of machinery Benefi ts www.interactive‑management.co.uk. / The chance to join a fast-growing company and develop your career Save time, money and Links Superintendent even the cost of your Course Manager Waterville Golf Links Aldeburgh Golf Club’s Championship Course Waterville Golf Links, founded in 1889, is a world‑renowned course located in County membership with the Kerry. The complex comprises an 18‑hole links course, practice range and three practice (ranked in the top 100 in UK & Ireland by Golf putting greens, plus a practice range, short‑game area, and putting green complex at our Monthly) is an exemplar of maritime heathland golf nearby 5‑star accommodation, Waterville House. BIGGA Xtra Benefi ts providing firm and true surfaces all year round. Requirements: / High standards of greenkeeping, course / Project and budgetary control In recent years, Aldeburgh has hosted major amateur management and presentation / Up‑to‑date knowledge of greenkeeping Scheme, o ering you championships for England Golf and for The R&A and the club won / Excellent management and organisational techniques including environmental, STRI’s Environmental Golf Course of the Year award in 2019. skills horticultural and safety requirements. Mark Broughton, the Course Manager, has announced his intention / Excellent communication skills fantastic discounts on a to retire in September 2020 after more than 20 years of outstanding service. This presents an opportunity for an ambitious greenkeeper to How to apply: manage fescue‑dominated turf at a highly‑regarded and Previous experience as a links superintendent/head greenkeeper is wide range of products forward‑looking club. desirable. Advantageous to have experience of working on a links course. Interested applicants should apply with cover letter and full CV to: Requirements of the role: [email protected] Closing date: 20 December 2019. / Strong agronomy and services. / Commitment to low input greenkeeping and the wider environment / Management and leadership of a team / Experience in setting and managing budgets / Project management and construction experience / Communication skills Assistant Greenkeeper Log in to / Technical expertise Remuneration will be in line with the role and based on the successful candidate’s experience. Accommodation is available if Ingrebourne Links www.bigga.org.uk to required by the successful candidate. Ingrebourne Links in Rainham, Essex are looking for a greenkeeper to assist in preparation Applicants to apply with a covering letter and CV to: David Wybar and presentation of our golf courses. Duties include mowing, strimming, other tasks relating start saving (Secretary, Aldeburgh Golf Club) [email protected] to golf course maintenance and preparation. Working average 40 hours a week, weekends on Closing date: Friday 31 January 2020 a rota basis. Opportunities to work paid overtime. Website: www.aldeburghgolfclub.co.uk Ideal candidate would have: / Educational opportunities / Greenkeeping experience / Use of golf course. / NVQ level 2 or equivalent in Amenity Please apply by email to: Sports Turf [email protected] / PA1 and PA6 spraying qualifications Or: Ben Adams, Head Greenkeeper, / Hard working, self‑motivated, reliable team Ingrebourne Golf Links, Rainham, Essex player RM13 9FL / MUST have transport. Benefits Include: Xtra / Competitive salary / Company pension Aldeburgh Golf Club, Suffolk Golf Club, Suffolk Aldeburgh Benefits

72 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd

00075 GI Magazine Fillers A4.indd 3 13/11/2018 10:13 From your association | Ecology Roundup //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// ECOLOGY ROUNDUP James Hutchinson | Membership Services Manager (Ecology & Sustainability) Here

Sea eagle Deer

One of your resident MSM for Sustainability and Ecology’s latest for you assignments was to head over to the Baltics to assist in creating an environmental report for one of the few golf courses in Latvia, and what a course If you notice your mental or emotional state getting worse, or it was too! you’re worried about someone you know - help is available. You’re The UK’s courses have such a variety not alone, so talk to someone you trust as sharing a problem is of native wildlife to deal with, including often the first step to recovery. BIGGA may not be the first place moles, badgers and corvids (crows, rooks etc), but take a second to think of the you consider asking for help, but help is at hand when you need it. trouble you’d have if beavers decided to cut your trees down and build dams with BIGGA’s Counselling Perennial them! The beavers block the drains at Assistance Helpline Perennial is the UK charity dedicated Jurmala, where Wendy O’Brien is course Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a to helping people who work or have superintendent, and reduce the water year. Completely confidential and worked in horticulture including flowing through the course. To fix this, Egret provides you with support by greenkeepers. BIGGA works very Wendy and the team must hire a telephone by specialist call handlers closely with Perennial to help any 360‑degree digger to sort it out! occasion, one will turn up in pieces, so Turns out, Latvia is the place to be for and counsellors – 0333 000 2082. member who needs free and Or how about moose? Have you seen who knows what else is mooching around large wildlife. Jurmala really is a special confidential advice, support and the size of a full‑grown male moose? I when the sun goes down – I decided course and thanks to Wendy for inviting BIGGA Greenkeepers financial assistance on have. Or rather we have. Wendy and I that an owl listening session was best me over to check it out! Benevolent Fund 0800 093 8543 (general advice) or nearly ran one over near to Jurmala, held from the balcony of the hotel, rather For the benefit of members when times 0800 093 8546 (debt advice). when it decided to amble across a than venturing out into the wilds. Ecology get tough and need financial support four‑lane highway. Cars, including ours, There’s a group of wild boars too ‑ now Call BIGGA House Roundup by way of a grant, award or a payment. swerved all over the place to avoid it. they can dig up a golf course when the is kindly and speak to a member of the Details available through the members After evasive action was undertaken and mood takes them. sponsored Membership Team on 01347 833 800, by area of the BIGGA website at we made it back to the golf course safely, Not all the critters on‑site make a visiting www.bigga.org.uk or by www.bigga.org.uk albeit shaken up, guess who was there mess though. Take this stunning Egret contacting your local BIGGA waiting for us? Yep, the moose. happily fishing in one of the many lakes. Membership Services Manager. Deer are also commonplace. On Or how about a sea eagle?

74 | Greenkeeper International | December 2019 | @BIGGALtd

0075 BIGGA Mental Health Ad Filler 210X297 FINAL.indd 1 29/11/2019 15:12 Come see us at BTME Stand 420, Purple Zone

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