Dear members,

As we wait with trepidation to see what this Sunday’s “big announcement” from the Premier brings, we all hope that it contains positive news.

We are all share the frustrations brought about by the apparent inconsistencies of the current restrictions; and we wonder how 500 people can walk the Tan, or visit Queen Vic Market, or go to the beach but two mates can’t walk down a 400m fairway together (and usually on opposite sides!)

We have lobbied the Government, Golf Australia, Golf Vic, and anyone else that would listen to see if we could return to golf sooner rather than later, sadly without success.

It would seem, regardless of what we all hope and pray for, the “road back” to post-COVID normality will be a slow, steady and very cautious.

It may be that we are still only permitted in pairs, or the 5km radius remains, or that we are allowed a maximum 2 hour ‘exercise’ block, whatever the conditions, we will work within the rules to get the best possible outcome for you.

We are also mindful that YPGC have lost a significant % of their income this year, and that there are a large number of course members that pay the same green fees, and have the same expectations to access as we do.

I am sure that whatever eventuates we would all be happy to get out on the course under any circumstances, even if only to spend 20 minutes on the range!

If, and when, we return to golf the Committee will continue to work with Michael, Mitch and staff to balance the needs of the course with the desires of the golf starved YGC members.

The Match Committee are also exploring all sorts of scenarios to see what events are possible to achieve and what events may be lost to this extraordinary year.

We are exploring possible delays, changes, or re-scheduling of the syllabus, all dependant on when we emerge from this dark tunnel and we will keep you informed as this unfolds.

We are still hopeful of being able to run the Club Championships, even if delayed like the Toyko Olympics, but this is all dependant on when we return, what is permitted when we do and what impact it has overall – I mean who would’ve thought the Grand Final would be at the Gabba (Go 🦅!), Mike Brady would sing Up There Cazaly in an empty MCG and the Melbourne Cup 🏆would have no crowds?

With the current restrictions, and with approval from Consumer Affairs Vic., most sporting clubs have deferred their AGMs, and we have done the same. We have an extension of time within which to hold the AGM and we are still hopeful of holding an in-person event, and even an end of year event, perhaps held together – but we have to wait and see what comes with the road out and will advise when we have a clearer picture.

Personally I have been part of a video conference with more than 50 people, and the experience was less than enjoyable, and with spotty internet connections many particpants continually dropped out, or had their transmissions freeze.

As you know YGC annual membership falls due on 31 October 2020, and the Committee have made the decision to retain the current fee levels for the 2020/2021 membership year. In this environment, bank transfer or deposit will be the only option available – there will be no cash or cheque option this year (unless as a deposit at a Bendigo Bank branch).

Membership renewal notices will be sent out in the next few weeks.

I encourage you all to remain patient, to continue practice putting down the hallway, chipping into flower pots, polishing your clubs, and marking your balls. Stay tuned to YouTube for the best tips and stretches and prepare for a potential re-opening – and stay in touch with your friends and family so when we return, we are all in a good headspace, and please continue to be kind to each other through this stressful time.

Stuart Thompson
President YGC

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