Plans are underway at Oberon Golf Club as it prepares for the arrival of its Big Buddy club, Oatlands Golf Club in January.
Oatlands and Oberon were brought together through the Golf NSW Buddy Club program, an initiative of Golf New South Wales to promote the game and club facilities across both venues.
The program was launched earlier this year with more than 120 clubs signing on to the program during the first round of offers. To date clubs have benefitted in many ways including the facilitation of strategic planning workshops, lending unused or under-utilised course and office equipment, and organised club visits from staff and executives.
The visit from Oatlands will include a delegation of executive staff including Club General Manager Barnaby Sumner, Director of Golf Operations Steve Younan, Teaching Professional David Ecob and Head Chef Paul Molan.
During the visit Oatlands staff will pass on their knowledge of golf club management and operations, and they will also coordinate activities aimed at introducing new members and engaging current members within the Oberon Club and its community.
The visiting delegation from Oatlands will help corganise a range of activities including a “Super 6s” competition, golf clinics and a 9-hole Ambrose competition. There will be a pop-up golf shop offering products that Oberon locals don't have regular access to. The new Oberon Kitchen will be in operation and there will be plenty of time to share ideas and golf stories.
Oatlands will also be donating dinnerware to be used in the newly renovated dining facility.
“We're a big winner out of this and we are grateful to be part of the initiative,” says Sean Mooney, Secretary of Oberon Golf Club. “The bonus to the Oatlands team is a trip to our lovely town and golf club, and if they pick up one idea from us that’s a bonus.”
Oatlands General Manager Barnaby Sumner regards the buddy club program as a great opportunity for his team to mentor and help develop other clubs within the industry.
“It looks like being a fun trip but we're also excited to be playing a part in developing our industry and assisting those clubs that perhaps aren’t as fortunate as our own in terms of resources and member numbers.” Mr Sumner says.
Golf NSW is currently calling for expressions of interest from any affiliated club that missed out on nominating for the first round of offers. More information can be obtained by calling the Golf NSW office on (02) 9505 9105 or emailing Jon Shineberg at jon.shineberg@golfnsw.org.