This week the board convened a board meeting to compile feedback from the published concept plans of the club house. We have put together a few Q&A's to help members better understand the changes.

The feedback to date has been extremely positive and on behalf of the board, we thank you for the feedback, it was well received. These are exciting times and we all look forward to getting on with the challenges ahead.

Questions

Q1. Why are we doing this?

1. The clubhouse is old and is in urgent need of significant repair.

Q2. How can we afford to build this ? How will we fund the fit out? How are we going to fund the development if the Local, State or Federal Govts do not stump up the full amount?

1. It is the expectation from all participants and third party's that have assisted the plans so far that it is more likely than not, we will be awarded grants at some level. The extent of these grants however is unknown. With this in mind, we will pursue grants from every available source and then reassess should we have a shortfall. I believe it is likely we will have a small shortfall. Once this is established, only then can we model the scenarios and determine the best way of financing the balance (if any).

Q3. Will our fees be increased to pay for this?

1. We do not believe fees will be increased to cover the build however this will be determined by the grants received. If there is a small shortfall, then a levy may be implemented, however, this goes hand in hand with item 2 above. Should a levy be necessary, the nomination fee would likely increase each year so not to disadvantage existing members from any new members who had not paid such levy..

Q4. How will public entering the club affect our membership constitution ?

1. Public currently enter our club and can do so with a modified house membership .

Q5. Will member parking be affected ?

1. It is likely the number of car bays will be increased to accommodate the new facilities. Members will have best use of the parking options.

Q6. Will we lose our identity of a private golf club and history?

1. We are currently one of only 10 private golf clubs in WA. This will remain and will not be at risk.

Q7. Why can we not access the toilets or changerooms from indoors. We have to go outside.

1. The plans show the new and renovated change rooms having access only via the external entrance which is adjacent to the car park. This is the same design as many other clubs (Lake Karrinyup/Mt Lawley). The main lounge however does have internal access to numerous toilets.

Q8. Why does the Pro shop not look over the course to be able to ensure all golfers who have registered are playing?

1. The pro shop has CCTV which provides suitable vision to both tees. Most clubs in Perth have a similar view of tee boxes. In fact, many clubs in Perth also use CCTV as they have no direct vision to tee boxes. For example, Mt Lawley.

Q9. What are we planning with our practice facilities? I.e. driving range and putting/chipping green?

1. The new putting green will be where the chipping green is currently but increased in size. The chipping green will be incorporated into a short game facility in our driving range. It is envisaged that members will be able to enjoy a significant improvement in short game practice facilities near the clubhouse rather than venture out to hole 13.

Q10. Is the kitchen located in the correct position?

1. We believe striking a balance between cost and existing facilities will provide suitable amenity. Retaining the location of our current kitchen allows service to both the restaurant and members/golfers lounge. The kitchen is centrally located. The kitchen may however need a review of its facilities to maximise efficiency.

Q11. Will the half-way house mean the drinks carts will no longer be in use?

1. Yes, it's likely the drinks cart would no longer be needed

Q12. Will the half-way house be connected to power & water?

1. Yes, and have new toilets with access from both 9's

Q13. Will the half-way house be staffed, or will it be an honour system?

1. It would be staffed during peak golf days when carts would have normally been in use.

 

The next phase of the proposed redevelopment is to continue our discussions with council/government and to look ahead towards development approvals. The board have decided to establish two subcommittees to steer discussions in the right direction. It is critical to the success of the project that we have the right people involved at the right time.

Our two non-executive board members will chair the two sub-committees. Charlotte Hall will chair the "Grants & Government" sub-committee. This committee will focus on exploring all avenues of grants and government funding. They will work with council and engage with them to maximise community outcomes. Rob Olde will chair the "Project Development" sub-committee. His committee will look at the land/title issues and work with council to get development approvals. They will also look towards building and construction. The implementation and staged works will be critical to ensure we as a club continue to provide amenity to our members and maintain revenue during the estimated <2 year construction phase.

I now invite those with the relevant skill set and qualifications (with current CV attached) to submit their interest to nonexec1@gosnellsgc.com.au for Grants and Gov sub committee and nonexec2@gosnellsgc.com.au for Project Development sub committee. We require all applications by the 13 January 2023. The board will then work with Charlotte and Rob at the January Board Meeting to finalise these two working groups. Should anyone require further information about these committees, please direct your query to Charlotte and Rob accordingly.

I ask all members to think of those fellow members they know that can contribute to these two sub-committees. The contribution by these two groups will be significant to the end outcome of our proposed redevelopment plans.

On another note, Fiza, our GM starts maternity leave tomorrow. Fiza has worked tirelessly since her arrival. Her workload over the past 3 months has been truly enormous - thank you Fiza and good luck. We all look forward to her return in the new year.

On behalf of the board, we wish all members and staff a safe and happy festive season.

Shane Thompson

Club President