NT golfers rejoice as courses reopen after Chief Minister rolls back coronavirus restrictions for non-contact sports

TERRITORIAN golfers are expected to flock – safely – to courses from this afternoon, after the government lifted the ban on non-contact outdoor sports.

Lisa Stenlund is stoked the Chief Minister is easing restrictions and can’t wait to get a round in at Gardens Park Golf Links. Picture: Glenn Campbell

TERRITORIAN golfers are expected to flock – safely – to courses from this afternoon, after the government lifted the ban on non-contact outdoor sports.

The restriction rollback, which begins at noon today, means shooting ranges, tennis courts, boot camps and athletics can reopen or restart.

Outdoors gyms will also reopen alongside public pools, though CrossFitters and fans of F45 will have to wait until May 15.

Pilates, yoga, dance lessons, barre and the like will also need to wait until then and there will be a two-hour time limit on indoor activities.

On June 5 all team sporting competitions, including footy, netball, soccer, basketball and cricket can return with spectators.

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Chief Minister Michael Gunner warned physical distancing would still apply.

“Failure to do it puts this plan at risk of failure,” he said.

“I’m not asking you to walk around with a tape measure. I am asking you to use your head, use that Territory common sense, and keep your distance.

“Please just do it. Stay one and a half metres apart, for all of us.”

Gardens Park Golf Links managing director Rodger Dee said he had been fielding booking requests from members all yesterday, and many slots through the weekend had already been taken up.

He’s had no cash flow since the NT Government told courses on April 3 that they needed to close.

“It’s important that we open, we need to open from a financial point of view but also just for the quality of life,” Mr Dee said.

“It’s a lot to do with our physical and mental wellbeing.

‘When you’re out on the golf course you forget about your troubles for a while.”

Alan Lodge and Lisa Stenlund are keen to get back out on the golf course. Picture: Glenn Campbell

Avid golfer Lisa Stenlund said she would be down at Gardens Park by 11.30am today, counting down the minutes until she can tee off.

She said for many people a daily session at the course was part of their routine.

“People have just been waiting for it to open up again,” Ms Stenlund said.

“It’s the best, I’m so happy.

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“I will be down at 11.30am waiting for it to open up and I think there will be a fair few people, but I’m sure everyone will keep their social distance.”