South Australian golf clubs taking all measures possible to keep playing during the COVID-19 pandemic

Two more golf clubs near Adelaide will continue operating to give members and casual players a way to clear their minds and exercise amid the coronavirus crisis. SEE THE FULL LIST OF COURSES.

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The spacious surrounds and open fairways of the golf course are an appealing escape from the pessimism and despair brought on by coronavirus, according to South Australian golf professional Peter Bickley.

Bickley, who runs the Willunga and McCracken Golf Clubs said while many South Australian business had been greatly affected by COVID-19 there was still a strong desire for people to be able to get out in a safe and controlled environment.

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“The general feeling among players is we should be able to stay open,’’ Bickley said.

“It’s not only a form of outdoor exercise but also acts as a distraction from all the doom and gloom.”

Like all golf clubs still operational in SA, Willunga and McCracken have taken on strict guidelines to ensure all COVID-19 protocols are adhered to sustain business.

They include only two players per group, one cart per person, the removal of flag sticks and bunker rakes while ball washers and drink fountains on the course have been disabled.

Mark McPherson (left), from McLaren Vale, and Brenton Irving, from Seaford, tee off at Willunga Golf Club. Picture: Sarah Reed

“We are confident that with the protocols in place we can ride the storm until the end,’’ Bickley said.

While they, like a number of clubs, have cancelled member competitions during the coronavirus pandemic Bickley said there had been a lot of interest in golf from the general public.

“We are seeing less members play with the cancellations of comps, but our public patronage is still going well,’’ Bickley said.

“Even though we are offering carts at half price, we have seen a dramatic downturn in cart hires.

Mark McPherson and Brenton walk the course. Picture: Sarah Reed

“And we are still conducting one-on-one lessons with our teaching professional Gavin Fontaine, but clinics are on hold.”

Willunga member Brenton Irving said despite not playing competitions, he was more than keen to get out and chase a little white ball around during a difficult time.

“It’s probably one of the few remaining sane thing in our lives at present,’’ Irving said.

“You’ve got to try and keep something normal in your life to stop you going crazy.

“The club has taken all the measures they can ensure we can keep playing, as long as everyone maintains social distancing I can’t see a reason why there should be an issue playing golf, it’s the same as going for a walk anywhere.”

Originally published as South Australian golf clubs taking all measures possible to keep playing during the COVID-19 pandemic