Far North golf clubs remain open for play, but with COVID-19 restrictions in place
Many golf courses across Far North Queensland are allowing play to continue in line with government restrictions, despite Golf Australia recommending they close. SEE WHICH CLUBS REMAIN OPEN.
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Golf clubs across Far North Queensland are keeping their courses open, despite the national body recommending their closure in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Limits to groups of two, strict time limits between tee-offs, no competitions and scores, and members only are just some of the measures that are being taken by the region’s golf courses as they seek to stay alive.
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Golf Australia advised all of the nation’s golf clubs and facilities to close until further notice because of stricter conditions on outdoor gatherings late last month.
Many had already closed their clubhouses and function centres, but were still allowing play.
Cairns Golf Club last week closed its course and practice facilities and remains closed until further notice.
Ravenshoe Millstream Country Club also closed last week.
“The committee has made this difficult decision in order to protect the health of every associated with our club,” the club posted on Facebook.
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“There is significant need for everyone (not just golfers) to assist in limiting the spread of COVID-19,” the post continued.
“As our workforce is made up of volunteers, most of whom are senior members, we do not want to take a risk which may endanger their health.”
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But the two clubs have not been followed by the vast majority of others in the region, which cannot be forced to close their courses.
Atherton Golf Club remains open for members and guests and welcomed a 30-strong field to this Wednesday’s Sporters competition.
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Millaa Millaa Golf Club is also still operating and had “a very good turnout” at last Sunday’s Monthly Medal.
“Everyone was very aware of the rules and made sure that they did the right thing at all times,” the club posted on Facebook.
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“(The competition) proved that we can play and obey all the safety restrictions currently in place ensuring that everyone is safe.”
Golf Australia reiterated its stance on course closures in a statement on Tuesday.
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“It remains Golf Australia’s formal recommendation that, based on the Prime Minister’s announcement on Sunday evening, March 29, that all golf clubs and facilities should close until further notice,” the statement read.
“However, Golf Australia acknowledges that some state/territory governments have since taken alternative positions.
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“As promised, we will keep you up to date as and when additional state/territory announcements are made so you are clear on the legalities of golf courses and their operations moving forward.
“While this is a difficult time for the golf industry and wider society, Golf Australia is committed to working with clubs and facilities across the state to ensure that we return a vibrant, strong industry.”
WHERE TO PLAY GOLF IN FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND?
*** All clubs are adhering to the social distancing and hygiene guidelines detailed by Golf Australia ***
Atherton Golf Club: Open with restrictions.
Babinda Golf Course: Open with restrictions
Cairns Golf Club: Closed
Cardwell Golf Club: Open with restrictions
El Arish Country Club: Open with restrictions
Gordonvale Golf Club: Open with restrictions
Half Moon Bay: Open with restrictions
Innisfail Golf Club: Open for members only with restrictions
Mareeba Golf Club: Open with restrictions
Mossman Golf Club: Open with restrictions
Millaa Millaa Golf Club: Open with restrictions
Mirage Country Club: Open with restrictions
Ravenshoe Millstream Country Club: Closed
Tully Country Club: Open with restrictions
Palmer Sea Reef: Open with restrictions
Originally published as Far North golf clubs remain open for play, but with COVID-19 restrictions in place