Golf Australia communication regarding COVID-19 for Victorian Golf Clubs and Facilities

As you are aware, COVID-19 or the Coronavirus as it is more commonly known has created global health concerns regarding the disease and its infection rates.

Golf Australia is writing to provide further assistance and guidance to our clubs and facilities on this important topic.

Victorian Government Announcement – September 15, 2020

On September 15, the Victorian Government announced changes to restrictions in Regional Victoria from 11:59 pm on Wednesday, September 16.

Golf Operations Advice – Regional Victoria

Based on information published on the Victorian DHHS Website, Golf Australia is delighted to recommend the following for all clubs in regional Victoria:

• Golf can recommence being played in groups of four
• Club competitions can be conducted
• MyGolf, Get Into Golf, and other clinic or individual coaching can recommence in an outdoor environment for groups of ten or less, plus a coach
• There are no travel restrictions on residents of Regional Victoria
• Masks must still be worn when playing golf

The DHHS Website page with the relevant information can be found here

Golf Australia continues to seek clarification on the following;

• The use of practice facilities by participants
• The provision of hire equipment to participants
• Indoor coaching in a retail environment

GA will also communicate with any further information as outlined in the Restricted Activity Directions as soon as practicable tomorrow.

Clubs/facilities are advised that the document entitled “Managing play in a COVID-19 environment” continues to be available for use, and Golf Australia encourages clubs to do so to minimise risk to participants, staff and volunteers.

Food & Beverage Operations Advice – Regional Victoria:

Hospitality operations will be allowed under strict conditions;

Golf Australia recommends that clubs/facilities intending to open for food & beverage trade refer to the ‘Industry Restart Guidelines – Hospitality’ published by Business Victoria and found at the link below:

Particular attention should be given to the following;

• Patron limits & density requirements

• Face coverings requirements
• Cleaning requirements
• Record keeping requirements
• COVIDSafe plan requirements
• Seated service requirements

Operations advice – Metropolitan Melbourne

At present, there are no changes to conditions for golf clubs/facilities in Metropolitan Melbourne. Golf Australia has continued discussions with government departments this week and expects further information to be provided in the coming days.

Golf Australia contact:

If you require additional information or have questions please do not hesitate to contact John Stamp, Club & Facility Support Manager – Vic , on 0418 395 140 or johnst@golf.org.au

PGA of Australia contact:

If PGA members require additional information or have questions please do not hesitate to contact David Barker, Senior State Manager on (03) 8320 1911 or dbarker@pga.org.au

Kind regards,