Caroline Hammat
Members of the Hatherleigh Golf Club were informed last week that the picturesque course will close upon expiry of their current memberships on June 30, 2024.
A letter sent to members highlighted declining membership and escalating maintenance costs were adding to financial pressures facing the Hatherleigh Sport and Recreation Committee (HSRC).
In the letter committee president Tim Merrett said the club had been cherished by the community.
“However, it is with a heavy heart that we must now address the challenging reality facing our club,” he said.
The committee said they, along with Wattle Range Council, were actively exploring alternative options for the land currently occupied by the nine hole course.
They stated their focus was on maximising the land’s potential, generating revenue and benefitting the community.
HSRC treasurer Elle Rayson said it costs the committee around $20,000 a year to maintain the course and they had been struggling with those costs for awhile.
“We pay for the water, mowing and the electricity, the pipes and sprinklers are aging and always needing repairs,” she said.
“There are great people in the community that try to support it and have their Christmas shows out there but it just isn’t enough.
“This past year there are only 13 or 14 members.
“2020 was the first year the club had broken even for a long time because during the covid lockdowns people were out using the course.”
To acknowledge the history and traditions of the course a final farewell game was planned for Sunday, June 23.
Golfers of all levels are invited to register for the Phil Keatley Cup Ambrose competition.
Registrations for the competition are from 12.30pm with the tee time scheduled for 2pm.
Entry is $20 and $10 for members which covers green fees and a sausage sizzle.
Full bar facilities will be available on the day with a drinks cart on course.
