NEW GOLF CLUBHOUSE MILESTONE

Taupo Times, Volume 19, Issue 98, 17 December 1970, Page 8

NEW GOLF CLUBHOUSE MILESTONE

The completion of the new clubhouse represented an important milestone in the history of the club and should be the cause of immense satisfaction to all concemed, the retiring president of the Taupo Golf Club, Mr G. F. Barlow, said in his report to this week's annual general meeting.

Mr Barlow said it was gratifying to think that at long last members and visitors would be able to enjoy comfortable and functional facilities. A mild winter and above average rainfall had along with continued manuring, brought about a marked improvement to the course; but the ravages of geothermal heat were a continuing source of concern. However, said Mr Barlow, there had not been a really

alarming increase in the affected areas during the year and the situation could be stabilising A considerable amount of formation had been carried out on the second course, but further development would depend now on finance and the availability of a suitable water supply which was still under investigation. Mr Barlow marked a healthy growth in membership and said it was encouraging to note an increase in full playing strength of approximately 25 per cent. Total membership for 1970 was 989, compared with 895 the previous year and 707 in 1964. Full playing rights were enjoyed by 548 (445 in 1969) and country membership totalled 314 (318) Junior numbers dropped, from 45 last year to 30, but there was an increase of 10, to 24, in the intermediate ranks. Mr Barlow said record fields participated in the various competitions and starting times had to be extended to accommodate the increasing numbers. In the interests of the club as a whole, it had been decided to amend next year s programme reducing the number of weekend tournaments. It was felt that towards the end of the playing season there were too many weekends during which members' golf was curtailed on account of tourneys. Mr Barlow commended club professional Jim Clelland and the sub-committee headed by Mr T. W. Halverson, for their efforts towards the promotion of junior golf. He recorded regret at the passing of several members during the year and thanked officials. staff and officers for their work during the 1970 golf season.