The impact of Cyclone Alfred has been both significant and wide-reaching for the Club. Over 500mm of rain fell throughout the weather event, resulting in substantial inundation, with more than a third of the course underwater at its peak. Extreme winds compounded the damage, bringing down numerous trees and causing widespread limb loss, which added considerable complexity to the clean-up and recovery process.
A major priority has been the removal of dangerous hangers and fallen trees, which is still ongoing. Several root balls remain in place and will require heavy machinery for removal - a task we expect to complete over the coming month. Infrastructure damage also extended to multiple cart paths, with audits still underway to fully assess the extent of repair works required.
All bunkers on the course were affected. The reinstatement process has resulted in the majority of bunkers returning to play, with the exception of Hole 7, although we acknowledge that several bunkers still require further attention. These works will also be completed over the coming month(s).
One positive aspect from the forced course closure was that our greens, tees, and fairways benefited from the rest period, with playing surfaces showing excellent signs of recovery. This outcome presents an opportunity for reflection. There are likely lessons to be drawn from the event, particularly around the relationship between course usage and turf quality.
It highlights the need for a more detailed analysis of total rounds played in relation to our surface condition and quality objectives. Striking the right balance is a complex and ongoing challenge, but this recent disruption has underscored just how closely these elements are connected. For a period, the club has been monitoring and evaluating round volume data to develop informed strategies that support both course longevity and member enjoyment.
The financial impact of Cyclone Alfred is also substantial, with total costs already exceeding $200,000. These costs include cleanup, repair, and replacement items, as well as the income lost due to interruptions to trade and play. Given the Club's history with flooding, several conditions apply to its insurance policies. However, we are in active discussion with our insurer, and a claim is currently being evaluated.
We are grateful to have received immediate support from both the Brisbane District Golf Association (BDGA) and the Queensland State Government, each contributing $5,000 to assist cyclone-impacted clubs. As further grant opportunities become available, the Club will, as always, pursue these avenues to support our recovery efforts and longer-term resilience planning.
The leadership provided by Keith Johnson (Course and Facilities Superintendent) and Tim Inglis (Assistant Superintendent), along with the team's overall performance, was nothing short of outstanding. Long days and weeks were required - including Saturdays and Sundays - and the team responded without hesitation or complaint. Their work ethic, commitment, and pride in the course were evident throughout the recovery.
The challenges extended beyond the course as well. The scheduling of several major events was either cancelled or under serious threat, including the Women's and Men's Club Championships, Keperra Bowl, Honour Board events, Women's Pennant, School Regional Championships, and numerous corporate and partner activities. Once again, I would like to acknowledge the employee team, particularly Golf Operations, for the professional and initiative-taking manner in which they have managed and continue to manage a golf program that often proves complex and challenging.
Finally, I would like to sincerely thank our volunteers for their mighty contribution during this time. I also acknowledge the Board for ensuring that every necessary resource was made available, including the redeployment of staff from throughout the business to assist where needed. The camaraderie and collaboration that exists across all departments is outstanding and deeply appreciated.
While challenges remain, the resilience of our team and community continues to shine through, and we look forward to returning the course to its best in the weeks ahead.
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