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Member Update March

Dear Member,

Sending everyone warm easter wishes as we approach the long weekend. For those who are travelling, or visiting family, do so safely, and for those who are sneaking in a bit of extra golf, what a wonderful idea! If you happen to be bringing a visitor over the long weekend - or any time for that matter, please remember that the Heatherton Road gate shuts at 3:00pm daily, so if you are arriving after that, please plan to arrive together to ensure they get in.

As is tradition, the clubhouse will be closed on Good Friday - however the GSC will be open, and there will be access to locker room and toilet facilities. Otherwise it is business as usual over the easter weekend.

There are a number of updates below that should be of interest, our Course Capital Works information evening, and an opportunity to submit questions for the architect and the Working Group, a change to our reciprocal arrangements with Woodlands, and an update to our timesheets that will come into play next week.

There are also a number of upcoming events that may be of interest too - particularly our Masters Event, and our Women's Charity / Guest day - and for those who would like to improve their game, there are clinics, club fits and lessons galore.

It has been a busy golf calendar, with a number of club events, as well as pennant season kicking off. We have had our two pennant host days last week, which were overwhelmingly positive, and the feedback from other clubs who visited us has been excellent. The pennant season is well underway, and it has been a positive start for our teams. Full reports are available below.

There is also a bit of a mystery in Crocodile Mick's footy tipping competition - if anyone knows any more about this, I am certain Mick would love to hear from you!

As always, the detail on all of this is below, and remember to be logged into the club website to read the full articles. If you have any feedback, or suggestions, please don't hesitate to hit reply to this email.

On behalf of the team here at Spring Valley, wishing you and yours a safe and happy Easter break.

Chris Poulton
General Manager

Course Capital Works Information Evening

Members are advised that the rescheduled Member Information Evening regarding the Course Capital Works Project will take place on Friday May 3, 2024, arrival at 6:00pm for a 6:30pm start, with an Extraordinary General Meeting to follow shortly thereafter (date to be advised). At this time the Board will ask Members to approve the works and funding proposal in order to proceed with the works in 2025 and 2026. Details of the proposal are being finalised and will be made available over the coming weeks before the Member Information Evening.

The information evening will include a presentation from Mike Cocking, the Club's consulting architect. Mike will take members through the architectural changes that have been included in the Master Plan, outlining the design philosophies and principles behind these suggested works. He will also provide an insight into the impact of a new irrigation system, as well as the process that is involved in greens' replacement.

Also, there will be presentations from members of the Capital Works Working Group explaining:

the driving factors behind the Capital Works project including the need to replace ageing infrastructure;
how the works will be financed and the financial contributions that Members will be asked to make;
the scheduled timings of the works and the impact that this will have on member access to the club throughout the project.

Heatherton Road Gate

Members are reminded that the Heatherton Road gate closes daily at 3:00pm. Member access after this time is with your fob. Please ensure if you are bringing a guest after this time that your arrival coincides with theirs so they can get in.

In the event of an evening club function where guests may be attending, we will adjust the closing time accordingly. It will continue to open at 6:00am each day.

For those who are reliant on Taxis, Ubers or other lifts home, and you are planning on leaving after these times, there are two options. The first one is to walk to the Heatherton Road Gate, which is not likely to be a desirable option, so we recommend you arrange for your lift to collect you outside the Graham Rd gate - pick up address 2 Graham Rd, Clayton South VIC.

Woodlands Reciprocal Arrangements

Woodlands Golf Club has recently notified us that in response to an unsustainable level of course traffic over the last couple of years, the club has been looking at various initiatives to try and reduce round numbers. One of these changes is the decision to apply a member guest green fee to local reciprocal clubs (including Spring Valley Golf Club members) Effective April 1 2024.

From this date, the member guest green fee will be $110.00pp when visiting Woodlands - This includes a comp fee for the day. Woodlands members will also be charged a fee of $110.00 when visiting our Club. It is worth noting that those who participate in the Woodlands v Spring Valley Cup will be able to do so free of charge.

The process for arranging a game at woodlands will not change, letters of intro will still be required to be provided, and the access times will also be maintained.

Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday Timesheets

After a review of the booking process, the Match Committee has elected to make some changes to the busiest timesheets. Commencing on Wednesday April 3, our timesheets for Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday will be spilt into separate AM & PM timesheets.

The aim of this initiative is to help streamline the booking process, which will help to reduce the waiting time in the queue after the lottery draw is closed and the timesheet is open.

The two timesheets will then be merged together prior to play, which will allow us to complete our club competitions, ball comp, pro comp and golden ball as normal.

Celebrating our Legends: Kenn Buckley

For over half a century, Kenn Buckley has been an integral part of the fabric of Spring Valley Golf Club, embodying the spirit of loyalty and camaraderie that defines our community. On Wednesday 27th March, we celebrate Kenn's enduring commitment and cherished memories, we reflect on his remarkable journey through the club's history.

Kenn's connection with Spring Valley runs deep, beginning in 1968 when he first stepped onto our fairways. Introduced by his father, who was also a proud member, Kenn fondly recalls a time when generations of fathers and their sons roamed our grounds, forging lasting bonds.

Footy Tipping

Crocodile Mick's WORLD FAMOUS footy tipping is back, and bigger than ever. Record numbers, a new event and as usual, the weekly sermon from the great man!

In what may be a first, mystery surrounds the identity of the round two winner - but fear not, Crocodile Mick is on the case.

Golf Ball and Recycling Scheme

Our Heritage Committee has made some changes to its current collection arrangements adjacent to the golf service center. Members would have been aware for some time, pre loved, orphaned and undisciplined golf balls have been collected in the large barrel there, which are used to raise Heritage Funds.

There is now a collection point for eligible drink containers also - which will be collected by Heritage volunteers and taken to the deposit centers, again, to raise funds for Heritage. Most aluminum, glass, plastic and liquid paperboard (carton) drink containers between 150mL and 3 litres are eligible. You can keep the lids on, we recycle them too.

The Heritage Committee would be thrilled if you continued to donate your pre loved, orphaned and undisciplined golf balls, as well as your eligible drink containers in the relevant bin adjacent to the golf service center entrance.

The Season So Far

Things are looking good early in the season for our Pennant Sides. with three of our four sides undefeated, and sitting on top of the ladder at this stage of their respective seasons. With a break for easter, all sides would love to see some support at their next rounds from fellow members.

Round five for our Friday Women's team is on April 5, and they are taking on Kew at Sandhurst at 8:00am. On April 7th, our Sunday Women are off to Settlers run to take on The Heritage, at 7:45am, our Youth team are off to Sanctuary Lakes to take on Green Acres at 11.30am and our Men are heading to Rosanna to take on Sanctuary Lakes at 11.15am.

Last Friday and Sunday we had our two host days for the year, and the feedback from the visiting clubs has been nothing short of exceptional. There were rave reviews from many on the quality and the conditioning of the golf course, the exceptional morning tea options and lunch served, as well as the attention to detail with the information that was provided to clubs in the lead up to the day, and very importantly the friendly service that was provide on the day by the GSC and the hospitality teams. A special thanks to Assistant Manager Kim for all her organisational work, to Craig and the course team, Tim and the GSC team, and Daniel & Jamie and the Food and Beverage teams for putting on such a great representation of what Spring Valley has to offer.

Friday Women

Round Three: Centenary Park v Spring Valley at Paterson River

First out today was Jan. With the match square after the first few holes, Jan let her opponent in with a couple of short putt misses. A pattern of play started to emerge and continued for most of the day. Jan would have the advantage off the tee, and increase that advantage, after both players played their second shot. However her opponent, who rarely left the fairway, would get up and down with long range two putts. Jan, on the other hand, struggled with the pace of the greens.

Sunday Women's Team

Round Two: Gisborne v Spring Valley at Spring Valley

Round 2 of Sunday Ladies Pennant was a home game and this report must start with a big thanks to the Ladies Committee for their support and organisation, and to the staff at Spring Valley for all their work in making the morning so successful. The course was superb as expected, and the lunch was a big hit too, making Spring Valley the envy of all the other teams who were present.

Youth Team

Round Two: The Heritage v Spring Valley - at Kew Golf Club

We headed to Kew Golf club on a chilly fresh autumn morning, that never really felt like it got above 15 degrees in temperature for the entirety of the day. We had lost two players this week, but Seb Kyle and Jeffrey Jiang were two big ins for the Valley as we look to take on another team that had not won so far in this shortened Youth Pennant season.

Men's Team

Round Four: Rosanna v Spring Valley at Eastwood.

The adventures of Spring Valley's Men's Team travelled to the foot of the Dandenongs to the picturesque Eastwood Golf Club for a clash with Rosanna. A strong team with a great mix of youth and experience, Rosanna were set to test our undefeated lads in a contest that would shape the top half of the table.

US Masters Event

We are excited to extend a warm invitation to all its members and their guests to join us for the US Masters Golf Event, taking place on Monday, 15th April 2024. This is a rare opportunity to witness the world’s best golfers compete for the coveted Green Jacket, and you can catch all the live coverage of the event at our clubhouse starting from 6:30am.

The day will begin with a sumptuous breakfast in our dining room before the shotgun start follows at the completion of the broadcast. The competition is heating up, and you never know who will take home the SVGC Green Jacket. Following the round, presentation and prizes will be held during lunch, making for a perfect day of golfing entertainment and camaraderie with fellow Spring Valley Golf Club members.

Women's Charity Day

We are thrilled to announce the upcoming Women’s Charity Day, proudly supporting Safe Steps. Safe Steps is a leading Family Violence Response Centre, offering crucial services to those affected by family or domestic violence. All money raised during this event will go directly towards supporting Safe Steps in their mission to provide specialist crisis services and assistance to individuals seeking to break free from violence.

Safe Steps is committed to providing comprehensive support to individuals impacted by family violence. From legal and court assistance to tailored initiatives for victim-survivors with disabilities through the Disability and Family Violence Crisis Response Initiative (DFVCRI), Safe Steps is a beacon of hope for those in need. To learn more about their impactful work, visit their website at safesteps.org.au.

Course Report - March

Superintendent, Craig Anthony has put together the following report on recent course activity.

I think we all agree, that the course has been in fantastic condition, which is a credit to the work of Craig and his team. On behalf of all Members, thank you!

Summer Clothing Sale

Members can enjoy 40% off all Footjoy, Travis Mathew and Puma clothing in store only. There is still a chance to grab a bargain, as the sale goes through the Easter Weekend, and concludes on Monday 1st April.

Masters $10.00 Sweep

As the prestigious Golf Masters Tournament approaches, it’s time to elevate your excitement to the next level! Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply enjoy the thrill of the game, our Golf Masters Sweep is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of golf while also giving you a shot at winning some exciting cash prizes. With just a $10 entry fee, you could be on your way to claiming victory alongside your favourite players.

CLICK HERE TO ENTER

Driving Range Buckets

A friendly reminder to members, that range balls & buckets are not to be removed from the club. Over the last week or two, our supply of buckets has diminished drastically - to the point that members wishing to hit balls have been unable to do so.

If you have inadvertently removed a bucket from the club, please return it as soon as possible.

Clinics & Lessons with Max

We're excited to announce our upcoming schedule of clinics designed to cater to golfers of all levels and interests.

From mastering your swing to refining your short game, our specialised clinics cover it all.

Sign up now to secure your place. Timesheets are now open, so don't delay - reserve your spot today and join PGA professional Max Benner, for unforgettable golfing experience!

For those looking for private lessons, Max as a special on at the moment which is 50% off your first lesson.

That is a one hour lesson for just $70 - limited spaces apply so book now.

Max has a wealth of knowledge, and is eager to help you improve your game.

Srixon, Cleveland, XXIO Fitting Day

Are you in the market for an upgrade?

There is still space available for our fitting day next Friday April 5th on the Southern Range.

Hour long sessions are available between 10am and 3pm,

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

School Holiday Program

Limited spaces are available for our School Holiday Program.

Kids aged between 5 and 12 are encouraged to attend. Held on April 2 and April 9, the sessions run from 12noon to 5pm, and include all equipment, Golf Clinics hosted by Max Benner and refreshments.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Hole In One

A huge congratulations to member, Jin Yan Li, for achieving golf’s greatest feat during her Thursday morning round!

In an epic moment on the challenging 10th hole, playing in the Women’s monthly medal, Jin Yan Li managed to sink a hole-in-one!

Despite the hole playing at its toughest from the plates, she flawlessly executed a perfect 7 iron shot from 119 meters, sending the ball straight into the bottom of the cup!

What an amazing achievement! Congratulations Jin.

Captain's Trophy

This past Saturday saw the first round of the 2024 Captain's Trophy take place. Martin Cook shot a sizzling round of 67nett to hold a one shot lead from Mal Sosbey and Harry Vu.

The second round of the event is due to take place on Saturday 6th of April 2024.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

Laurie Wins The Tankard

Laurie Pay had a win in the Tankard on Wednesday, with a tidy net 68.

What makes this special is that Laurie, at age 96, shot 97 off the stick to do so - very close to one of golf's finest achievements.

Congratulations Laurie

Congratulations to our Weekly Winners

Spring Valley Golf Club
619 Heatherton Road
Clayton South Vic 3169

Phone: +61 3 9562 3811
Email: gm@springvalleygolf.com.au
Web: www.springvalleygolf.com.au

Member Update March

Member Update March