03 Feb '08

Buggy It

The wet weather has highlighted some issues with motorised carts.

The wet weather has created quite a few problems for us, but also highlighted a number of other issues that were not really evident during the dry times.

One topic which received a good airing at the January Management Committee meeting was that of use of the motorised carts. The major consideration during the discussions was safety - safe use of this ‘machinery’ during this very wet season which is exacerbated by the terrain of our course. MC recognises that most drivers of golf carts - social renters, member renters and owner drivers - drive their carts to the prevailing conditions. However the driving behaviour of a minority cause some concern. Not only is our course suffering greater damage through inconsiderate driving, some driving is tempting an accident.

Some behaviours which are of concern are: removing direction signs and driving in protected areas; driving onto tees; driving closer than 10 metres from a green; speeding downhill; even doing ‘doughnut’ down hill.

MC reviewed and firmed up its policy on cart use on the course.

• Decision on accessibility: Mal, Steve and Mick will confer to decide if it is safe to allow carts to be used on wet days. Mal will also continue his program of maintenance on carts to ensure safe operation of machinery.

• Education: Notes on rules for safe operation of the cart and course ‘best travel path’ guide will continue to be distributed to those who use the carts.

• Identify unsafe behaviours: A ‘marshall’ will be employed from time-to-time to monitor cart use behaviours, and provide advice to users as needed.

• Warning: Those who offend with blatant mis-use and unsafe practices will be issued with a letter of warning.

• Sanctions applied: Wilful and/or repeat offenders will have sanctions applied (eg prohibited from use of cart for a period of time, etc)

MC recognises that, and is prepared to help the minority who may well be ignorant of safe and considerate practices, but will not tolerate blatant misuse and inconsiderate behaviours.

MC also congratulates and thanks those majority of players who use their carts safely and sensibly.