Interest in golf is to the fore in post COVID era
THE grass is looking greener on the other side of COVID-19 for Townsville region golf clubs that are experiencing participation and membership booms.
While the increase in players is not replacing a loss in turnover from food and beverage sales, it is been a positive step forward for local clubs.
Owing to the fact there has been little else to do, competition entries at Ayr Golf Club have almost doubled at weekly events.
The club’s recent popularity now rivals that of when PGA tour player Karrie Webb went through as a junior. Club captain Amanda Gees said they had also seen strong numbers of social players.
“If you put it back to golf as a sport across the state you’d be able say most clubs have been benefiting,” she said.
And with clubs preparing for open competitions, they are looking down the barrel of their biggest annual fields.
Tropics Golf Club in Kirwan has also seen a significant rise in golfers, with players from other sports getting involved.
Cricketer Brett Weightman said he and his mates purchased memberships when there were no other sports to play. “It’s a bit of mateship, and an opportunity to try our hand at a new sport,” Mr Weightman said.
Tropics GC general manager Matt Duke said with a lot of non-contact sports around town cancelled, people were falling back in love with golf. He hopes that has a flow-on effect.
“With the growing numbers in play, and membership numbers growing as well, it’s the partners, families and friends they’re drawing to the golf course facility as well,” he said.
It was hoped eased restrictions would allow golf clubs to rebound through food and beverage sales.