Golf Club Atlas
GolfClubAtlas.com => Golf Course Architecture Discussion Group => Topic started by: Scott Warren on September 30, 2009, 04:55:24 PM
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The inaugural GCA BOOMERANG will be held at Barnbougle Dunes and The Lost Farm from Friday, March 4 - Sunday, March 6, 2011.
How can you pay?
The deposit you have paid to me will be forwarded to Barnbougle Dunes to secure your place and the balance can be paid when you check in to your room on March 3.
late entries
If you want to take part but did not enter by the July 31 2010 cut-off, send me an email or PM and I will check with my contact at the resort to see if you can be added to the field and whether accommodation is avilable.
List of participants
The Aussies
Scott Warren (Deposit received AU$100)
Kevin Pallier (Deposit received AU$100)
Matthew Delahunty (Deposit received AU$100)
Sean Walsh (Deposit received AU$100)
Terry Thornton (Deposit received AU$100)
David Elvins (Desposit received AU$100)
Mark Ferguson (Deposit received AU$100)
Andy Gray (Deposit received AU$100)
Steve de Wilde (Deposit received AU$100)
Jason Perry (Deposit received AU$100)
Sean Peacock (Deposit received AU$100)
Luke Storey (Deposit received AU$100)
Matt Maydo (Deposit received AU$100)
Todd Shuiling (Deposit received AU$100)
Stuart Cooper (Deposit received AU$100)
Matt Houston (Deposit received AU$100)
Adam Lowes (Deposit received AU$100)
Victor Annamalay (Deposit received AU$100)
Dustin Knight (Deposit received AU$100)
David Meyers (Deposit received AU$100)
Andrew Summerell (Deposit received AU$100)
James Bennett (Deposit received AU$100)
Dieter Jones (Tasmania resident - handling own booking)
Brett Morrissy (Deposit received AU$100)
The internationals
Mike Whitaker (Deposit received AU$105)
Patrick Kiser (Deposit received US$100)
John Mayhugh (Deposit received US$100)
David Kelly (Deposit received US$100)
Kyle Henderson (Deposit received US$100)
Sven Nilson (Deposit received US$100)
Colin Macqueen (Deposit received AU$100)
Bill Brightly (Deposit sent US$100)
Rob Miller (Deposit received AU$100)
Scott Coan (Deposit received US$100)
Wayne Freeman (Deposit received US$100)
Ron Kluwe (Deposit received US$100)
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If I'm going that far, it's going to be to play Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath!
Is it possible to be put under a general anesthetic for the 24 hours of the trip? :P
Tasmania would make a great pre or post trip, right? The beauty of the recent Buda - one of the beauties - was being a virtual member of Royal Cinque Ports during our stay, and being next door to Sandwich. I hope the same situation might be possible in Melbourne.
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i'd love to go if financially feasible at the time
and like Ace McBride, RM has to be on the schedule!
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i'd love to go if financially feasible at the time
and like Ace McBride, RM has to be on the schedule!
Sounds like something I would be interested in. Have always wanted to play RM. What's the weather like that time of year?
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i'd love to go if financially feasible at the time
and like Ace McBride, RM has to be on the schedule!
Sounds like something I would be interested in. Have always wanted to play RM. What's the weather like that time of year?
Seasons are flipped, so February/March are like California in August/September without the fog.
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I'm very interested, but like others have said, it would have to include the "big guns" if I'm going to endure a plane ride for that longr, I would only want to do it once, so RM, Kingston, Barnbougle, Commonwealth, Metropolitan would need to be included for me to make the trip.
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Is it possible to be put under a general anesthetic for the 24 hours of the trip? :P
we'll just invite the likes of Tiger and Phil, with the caveat that in order to listen to our knowledge for a week or so they have to take us on their private jets,,,
now who could in their right mind could pass up that opportunity?
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24 hours is a bit of an exaggeration for the US guys.
LA > Melbourne is about 15hrs
But London > Melbourne, for the UK contingent, is indeed 22-23hrs, generally with a stop in Asia somewhere.
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24 hours is a bit of an exaggeration for the US guys.
LA > Melbourne is about 15hrs
But London > Melbourne, for the UK contingent, is indeed 22-23hrs, generally with a stop in Asia somewhere.
NW Florida to LAX via Atlanta = 6 hours flying time. 24 hours is probably optimal spread over two days. :P
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Is it possible to be put under a general anesthetic for the 24 hours of the trip? :P
Certainly. Watching an Australian-made In-flight movie will knock you out perfectly.
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If you can get enough people and get a section of the airplane to yourself, you probably have enough discussions to last the entire flight easy.
Of course, that may result in knocking out every other passenger on the airplane... :)
This would be cool if it came together. Not sure if WAF is very high on this one.
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Sounds like it will be epic - count me hopefully in if it goes off (might have to send the wife to Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef or something).
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Great to see so many are keen to be involved!
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The flight is really not that bad. You most likely will leave LAX on the 11:30PM flight so you will be able to sleep for awhile unless you are someone that just can't sleep on an airplane (and in that case take an Ambien). The in-flight entertainment gives you dozens of tv and movie options as well as music and between those, a good book and the two or three meals they serve you'll be in Melbourne quicker than you think (albeit mid-morning two days later).
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I did the LA to Sydney flight once..it was 16 hrs as I recall.
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Good stuff Scott,
I would recommend Barnbougle for an event.
-Great courses - possibly the two best in Oz
-set up for accomodation and hosting
-better event with everyone having to travel
People can make their own arrangements to play RM, KH, Commo, etc, depending on what they want to do/how much time they have.
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Scott - Count me in! If I am alive I will be there. What will we call the event... the Aussie Cup?
To travel that far it will have to be a two week trip for me, maybe three.
Build it and they will come!!!
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Count me in, I left this up and the wife walked by and said an absolute yes, just have to find something for her to do. March would be undoable for me however.
Great idea let me know if I can help with anything.
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Scott
I recieved your PM (thanks) and agree it's a wonderful concept you are envisiging.
I'm sure the Aust. GCA brotherhood would be only too happy to help as best we can.
If any GCAers want to hook up via Sydney - I am certainly available to help with trip planning etc.
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I'm in subject to work
and can we arrange a few sandbelt tracks as well please :)
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I have been looking for a reason to go back down under and if this isn't a good enough reason I don't know what is.
Sandbelt,sandbelt,sandbelt ummm did I mention sandbelt ;D
Oh and the fact that lost farms should be done makes this a possible trip of epic proportions. I will be staying tuned.
Brad
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Scott as BUDA proves there is no better way to see courses and clubs than in a GCA event. I would love to be there. Thank you for proposing this.
However
- Respectfully even with your organising powers you aren't going to get people to schedule it in and commit with 3 months notice over Christmas. Dates and costs will need to be fixed 9 months in advance for people to commit.
- With no close friends or relatives in Oz I figure it’s a one time, three week visit and my wife believes I’m not going without her. So timing is critical. I’d like to say I’m in but it’s hard to be sure when I'll be able to pull it off.
All that woffle aside I’m confident that one day I will tee it up with you in Australia. (Chris you too. Err senior moment... JB and SW 2!) As the BUDA has shown these events have a way of gathering momentum and as Mike says organise it and we will come. Good luck.
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It sounds fantastic. Like Tony, however, I have reservations about whether you're allowing yourself enough time back in Aus to organise. Also like Tony, I'm never going to get away with travelling to the Antipodes without my wife and family and making it a three week trip. That's a big cost and, unless things pick up dramatically economically, not one I'm going to be able to commit to.
One final word. To all those saying "I'm only coming if it includes X, Y or Z": here's an offer from someone to organise a great event. Of course you want to play some other great courses. It's bloody cheeky to expect Scott (or any other Aussie contributor) to sort that out for you. Just as we do with pre/post BUDA golf, commit to the event and sort out the add-ons yourself. I'm sure there'll be some help available.
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Well said Mark, those who would only travel if certain courses are available should stick their heads above the parapet and ask how THEY can help to make it happen.
I've just heard a rumour of Buda 2010 at Muifield and St Andrews, unless we can play four ball at Muirfield on Friday and Peter Dawson hosts us at lunch at the R&A on Saturday you can count me out.
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Don't forget that there is already a GCA event scheduled for Australia late next year which Ran/Ben are organising - see the Golf&Travel section. My own experience a few years back suggests the foreign visitor who opens his cheque book can get onto just about all the top courses - but that is not quite the same as being hosted by a member in the Buda style, which is probably too much to hope for on a trip of that style.
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Respectfully even with your organising powers you aren't going to get people to schedule it in and commit with 3 months notice over Christmas. Dates and costs will need to be fixed 9 months in advance for people to commit.
Perhaps I worded the OP a touch poorly in that regard (the editor needs and editor!). By all means I intend to have pricing and details available very soon. I wasn’t intending to leave it hanging until I got home, I just thought the last-minute stuff could do with me actually being in the country, but with the amount of support I have had from GCAers offering to help out, that may not be the case.
One final word. To all those saying "I'm only coming if it includes X, Y or Z": here's an offer from someone to organise a great event. Of course you want to play some other great courses. It's bloody cheeky to expect Scott (or any other Aussie contributor) to sort that out for you. Just as we do with pre/post BUDA golf, commit to the event and sort out the add-ons yourself. I'm sure there'll be some help available.
Indeed, though I can see that those people are probably just being honest that if they fly that far they will want to play RM, Kingston Heath etc. The good news, as Philip pointed out, is that Aussie clubs are much like their UK brethren in that access can generally be arranged, albeit sometimes at a sizeable price.
Many GCAers have already made contact to say they would be happy to try to arrange some access to their clubs and while I won’t name the individuals or clubs (it is up to them if they wish to do so publicly), there are some fantastic “Bucket List” venues among them.
I am quite sure anyone who makes the effort to get to this event will be satisfied with the courses they are given the opportunity to see within the Main Event itself, through extra days organsed by GCAers and also through their own initiative making calls and sending emails to clubs.
As it is, many of the Aussies familiar with both the Sandbelt and Barnbougle have strongly supported Barnbougle as being preferable for an event such as this. I’ll keep taking advice on board in that regard.
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Scott,
Good for you for getting the ball rolling. That is often the biggest step, just getting past the inertia of not doing anything. I wish I could make the trip, but with my wife in graduate school at that time it just isn't in the cards. :'(
For those who need carrots you can make arrangements to play at most any course your heart desires down in Australia, with the exception of weekend golf. My best golf trip ever was down to New Zealand and Australia. The GCA'ers down there were such great company and the courses made the travel effort worth it. Save yourself a few hours of flying and start your golf in New Zealand. I recommend Paraparaumu, Cape Kidnappers, and Titirangi. Then on to Australia and because of the time changes you don't lose a day.
Barnbougle, RM, Kingston Heath, and New South Wales alone are worth making the trip from wherever in the universe you live.
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Scott
You have certainly caught the spirit of Buda! All the very best to you - I'm sure it will be a great success.
For me I'm afraid it will be a case of so near but oh so far. As you know I am scheduled to visit Australia in December 2010. Unfortunately neither finances nor work commitments will permit to remain there until February/March 2011 ;)
Having said that I'd love to meet up with as many GCAers as possible when I'm in Perth (and probably Melbourne) next year.
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Andrew,
Many of the Aussie guys have correctly reminded me most of Australia is just a touch warm in February (how quickly I forget how hot it can get!), and have suggested December 2010 might be better, with a few offering to help me organise if that will make December work.
It was also pointed out that February means club champs at most sandbelt clubs.
You may not be out of the running just yet...
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With all the prestigious courses invloved..by all means very interested.
As a Mackenziephile....the sandbelt is top of my list
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Excellent idea, Scott, even though I might not be ale to make it due to already using up my lifetime "trip to Oz to play golf" brownie points this April..... :'(
Some further comments:
1. I would agree with Andrew that tying to event somehow into the 2010-2011 ashes tour would be ideal. Maybe we could have an OZ v. ROW game of cricket so all of us can get a chance to see Mark "Hands of Stone" Pearce field in the slips.
2. I would also vote strongly for Barnbougle for the official event, with sandbelt (and other) tours done informally before and after. Based on my experience, the closer you keep people together (idealy with a base camp hotel) the better the camaraderie and the competition.
3. In terms of organisation, you have done the hard part, i.e. the thinking. Now relax and get somebody else to step up to the plate and do all the organising. You'll thank me for this advice later.
Slainte
Rich
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It sounds fantastic. Like Tony, however, I have reservations about whether you're allowing yourself enough time back in Aus to organise. Also like Tony, I'm never going to get away with travelling to the Antipodes without my wife and family and making it a three week trip. That's a big cost and, unless things pick up dramatically economically, not one I'm going to be able to commit to.
One final word. To all those saying "I'm only coming if it includes X, Y or Z": here's an offer from someone to organise a great event. Of course you want to play some other great courses. It's bloody cheeky to expect Scott (or any other Aussie contributor) to sort that out for you. Just as we do with pre/post BUDA golf, commit to the event and sort out the add-ons yourself. I'm sure there'll be some help available.
Mark, if I can make it down I will be delighted with a Buda-style event at Barnbougle. Rich makes an excellent point in the last post on the thread today about a close venue. All I was saying was that I will not be traveling all the way to Oz without a game at RM and KH while there. Sorry to have left off the ;D
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Perhaps the folks who are bringing wives should pull their heads together to figure out what our wives can do during golfing. My chances of joining this party would be infinitely higher if I can convince my wife that this would be a great trip for her as well.
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I might actually sell one of my kidneys to make this one...Barnbougle and Lost Ranch (Farm?) are the biggest priorities for me.
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Scott, great idea. Will be happy to help you in any way possible from back here in Oz if necessary.
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Perhaps the folks who are bringing wives should pull their heads together to figure out what our wives can do during golfing. My chances of joining this party would be infinitely higher if I can convince my wife that this would be a great trip for her as well.
Tragically Richard the only thing to do at Barnbougle is play golf. It is more than remote. On the up side the rest of Tasmania is absolutely spectacular and well worth a look. We australian supers had our conference in tassie this year and a number of guys took their wives and spent a few extra days to tour around the island. it is a truly inspirational and i bet you stumble across at least a dozen sites where you think to yourself "Gee, a golf course would fit in just nicely here"
Barnbougle is worth getting into trouble from the wife from as well. you can always make it up to her later.
robin
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How crazy would it be to do only a single week trip?
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John
It's a long way to come for just one week as normally I'd suggest at least two - but one week is better than not at all ;)
I wouldn't recommend you go anywhere other than Tas and The Sandbelt - where a couple of games would suffice in such an instance.
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Scott,
I am interested but the school holidays would suit me best. If it was in February/March and the event was played over a weekend I might be able to get over from NZ. Barnbougle would appear to be a good choice with the 2 courses in operation. The Mornington Peninsula is also a thought, St Andrews Beach is open to the publis now and could The National be pesuaded to come to the party?
Best of luck with this project. I hope it takes off.
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Would be great to be back for it.
Even if that's not possible, I can probably get Dave Burton (GM at NSWGC) to arrange some mid-week golf for those who are going through Sydney... although he speaks so fondly of Ran he probably has the same influence as I do.
arb:
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This is shaping up to be a great event.
Scott, just let me know if you need help with some organising. December will probably be the best time, just before the school holidays (which start around the 20th).
Cheers,
Andy
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Scott, let me know how I can help from this end. Would be great to see a few down here for a visit.
Brett.
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I'm stoked to see so much enthusiasm for this, the ball is rolling!
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I'm stoked to see so much enthusiasm for this, the ball is rolling!
Now the trick is to leave the organisation to all of us & waltz back into the country in a years time & take all the credit.
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;D Sounds like a plan!
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In... ;)
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In... ;)
Good news, Patrick, another NoCaler!
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Weatherwise, I would say that if playing Barnbougle/Lost Farm the event should be in February. If playing the Sandbelt, March is the optimal time.
I think Barnbougle would work well from a golfing point of view, but there are more dining / social / accommodation options in Melbourne which is what you might need for a big event.
For those who haven't been, golf is the only thing at Barnbougle. There's the clubhouse for dining or the big step down to the local pub in Bridport. There are, however, some nice wineries within a 15 minute drive, and some spectacular coastline anywhere from 10 minutes to 3 hours away.
Perhaps an option would be some leadup events on the Sandbelt and the main event Thurs-Sunday down in Tassie.
The Sandbelt is a problem if weekend play is required.
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Just a thought, but the Australian Tennis Open is also on in Melbourne late January, early February, it's a fantastic event, and would provide another attraction, not only for the men but also any wives that make the journey. Oh and there's also the shopping and cafe's that Melbourne is famous for.
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Just a thought, but the Australian Tennis Open is also on in Melbourne late January, early February, it's a fantastic event, and would provide another attraction, not only for the men but also any wives that make the journey. Oh and there's also the shopping and cafe's that Melbourne is famous for.
and temperatures in the 40s
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Just a thought, but the Australian Tennis Open is also on in Melbourne late January, early February, it's a fantastic event, and would provide another attraction, not only for the men but also any wives that make the journey. Oh and there's also the shopping and cafe's that Melbourne is famous for.
and temperatures in the 40s
haha, that's at 1p.m, then at 1:10p.m it will be 15deg. Gotta love Melbourne!!
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Gents,
Discussions are underway with several prospective venues in Australia, with news hopefully to come quite soon on a date and venue.
Owing to the extreme heat in Australia in January and February, this is likely to be held in March '11 or December '10.
The very good news is that a lot of hands have been put up re: hosting extra days, and once we have a date for the Main Event I would expect we might begin to get an idea of what extra-curricular options are available.
I'm offline for the next 10 days or so, but will hopefully have some more news when I return.
Apologies to those whose PMs I've not yet had a chance to reply to.
cheers,
Scott
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I would vote for March since it is tough to take several weeks in early December and a couple more around Christmas and New Years (and by March I will do anything to escape winter in Oregon).
This sounds awesome.
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...and by March I will do anything to escape winter in Oregon
Not too hasty there, Rob. It is entirely possible it could be Winter in March in Melbourne.
It is Spring here now, but rather more like Winter. Perth might be the best bet weather wise...
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OP updated as below:
I have been in touch with a few different people and this has emerged as our best bet:
Barnbougle Dunes and The Lost Farm - March 2011
Long weekend event played Saturday to Monday, one of the first two weekends in March (5-7 or 12-14).
Accommodation on-site at Barnbougle Dunes in twin-share (AU$80pp) or quad share (AU$50pp) rooms.
36 holes the first two days, with 18 the final morning, allowing for an evening flight out of Launceston (so 90 holes in total) to Melbourne and its Sandbelt or beyond...
The ballpark price (I am working on something concrete) for three nights accommodation and five rounds of golf is:
Twin-share: AU$550
Quad-share: AU$460
A weekend main event allows for mid-week extra days at the other clubs people wish to see, which are mainly private and harder to access at weekends, when they run members' comps.
Aussie GCA members have already registered interest in hosting extra days at clubs on the Sandbelt, Mornington Peninsula and at two of the best courses in NSW. Other courses could be accessed through an enquiry with the club. Australian clubs are similar to their British counterparts re: access.
All that being so, who is keen? Please indicate below so I can get some sort of field size to use as a guide for booking.
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Scott:
Good luck with this. Assuming that most people stop off in Melbourne for a few days on the way down or back, I think for most it could be the best golf trip you'll ever make.
While I am also one of the biggest proponents of the joys of New Zealand, I will humbly suggest that participants only stop over in New Zealand if they have at least three weeks to devote to the entire trip. Spending three days in New Zealand en route to Australia is just not enough and you will hate yourself for leaving it at that. Of course, it will make you vow to return ... but if you will just promise yourself to do that up front, then you can skip N.Z. this time, enjoy three more days in Sydney or Melbourne, and save N.Z. for later.
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Scott,
Great work. I'm in. Looking forward to see a few of the Americans I haven't had a chance to meet.
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Scott,
It is possible for me. My extension would be to NZ for golf (North Isl) and sightseeing (South Isl) as I have been to Victoria and NSW a couple of times. Paul Daley may be an asset in arranging all sorts of stuff.
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Keen, In, etc.
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Aussie GCA members have already registered interest in hosting extra days at clubs on the Sandbelt, Mornington Peninsula and at two of the best courses in NSW. Other courses could be accessed through an enquiry with the club. Australian clubs are similar to their British counterparts re: access.
Scott
Is one of those courses Wollongong GC ? ;D
Seriously - am happy to be a part of this and trying to help anyone who swings via Sydney
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Scott,
Please put me on the list - jedi mind tricks have worked on the "boss" provided she gets some time in Sydney and points north.
Good man for taking the lead on this - it will be amazing.
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Scott,
I'm keen. My only issue will be that I'm going to Scotland a few months later.
More than happy to help any guys stopping over in Sydney.
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Definately wish to attend!
Andrew,
Ditto should any help be required in Sydney or in the Newcastle/Hunter area.
I will be playing RM, Metro, National old, Victoria and Commonwealth in the coming weeks while attending "tiger mania". will post a few reports to get the juices flowing for those on all sides of the pond.
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I have just received concrete pricing for the present day from BD. The OP has been updated to reflect that exact cost, plus a contingency of 10% to allow for price rises, given this event is still 16 months away.
I have also added names of those who have indicated they are keen, either in posts or PMs. If you are on that list and shouldn't be, say so. If you are not on the list in the OP and are keen, say so.
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Good work Scott, I am keen.
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I'm keen. My only issue will be that I'm going to Scotland a few months later.
Hey, me too. And the first date is the day after my 50th birthday!! Not a problem, rather an opportunity
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Scott,
I am a likely if the first weekend in March. Unlikely if the second weekend.
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Looks like a good number of people so far!
I am also happy to help or host anyone coming through Sydney (whether golf related or not).
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The field has hit 25 with John Mayhugh and the Fairey boys joining the fray. Great to see.
14 Aussies
10 Americans, and
1 Brit so far.
If the UK guys are worried about getting too much of a culture shock, I can arrange some flat, warm beer to sweeten the deal?!
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If the UK guys are worried about getting too much of a culture shock, I can arrange some flat, warm beer to sweeten the deal?!
Better luck with arranging a heat wave that tops out at 18 degrees.
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Well if that the sort of hospitality us Brits would get, sod you! ;D
Honestly though, would love to come Scott, buts its not something I can commit to at the moment thanks to finances etc. But I will make the trip one day, and if I could combine it with another Aussie GCA event (I'm sure this one will inspire more) as well as an Ashes Tour then al the better.
Cheers,
James
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No worries, James. I'm having enough trouble getting you down to Deal! LOL. I am sure this will breed other events, any event will be better for having you in the field!
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So sorry to have to say this, but March is the month that I will be unable to attend. I wish everyone the best of luck with this and I will keep my ears open for any future outings to the land of OZ.
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I have been in touch with a few different people and this has emerged as our best bet:
Barnbougle Dunes and The Lost Farm - March 2011
Long weekend event played Saturday to Monday, one of the first two weekends in March (5-7 or 12-14).
Accommodation on-site at Barnbougle Dunes in twin-share (AU$80pp) or quad share (AU$50pp) rooms.
36 holes the first two days, with 18 the final morning (so 90 holes in total), allowing for an evening flight out of Launceston to Melbourne and its Sandbelt or beyond...
Current prices plus 10% (to allow for any price increase) for three nights accommodation and five rounds of golf is:
Twin-share: AU$550
Question, my wife is an avid golfer, would you guys care if she joined? Are most of you bringing your spouses?
Loooks like a great time, will definately consider!
Eric Strulowitz
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This would be a dream for me. How many hours in a plane fron Atlanta? Where do you fly into? How far from the airport are the courses? Are the courses together? Is Bill McBride signed up?
Thanks,
Anthony
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This would be a dream for me. How many hours in a plane fron Atlanta? Where do you fly into? How far from the airport are the courses? Are the courses together? Is Bill McBride signed up?
Thanks,
Anthony
Anthony, you'd have to get a flight from Atlanta to LA then it's a 15 hour flight, give or take, to Melbourne. From Melbourne you're looking at a very quick flight of less than an hour into Launceston. From there it's about a 90min drive to Barnbougle.
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No worries, James. I'm having enough trouble getting you down to Deal! LOL. I am sure this will breed other events, any event will be better for having you in the field!
Cheers Scott, I'm working on a trip to Kent spring next year? And if I dont manage that then I'll probably never manage to head as far south as Aus? Mean time, we will need to get you to Burnham or the Midlands, perhaps a trip to the Peak District for your lovely lady?
Cheers,
James
ps Enjoy Baltray when you head to Ireland. Its a beauty!
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Chris - that's too bad, sorry to hear it.
Eric - IMO, your wife is as welcome as any GCAer.
Trent - got your PM, cheers.
James - Burnham, Beau Desert and Woodhall Spa remain my three to play before the calendar hits 2010. Let's hope we can get one of them to come together, at least.
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Eric - you could let your wife know that I am down as a possible.
Cheers - Lyne
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Eric - you could let your wife know that I am down as a possible.
Cheers - Lyne
Scott, i'm a maybe
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Some word now coming through on just how incredible The Lost Farm is likely to be:
http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,37838.35/
Any more takers for this event?
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Dates booked!!
The inaugural GCA BOOMERANG will be held at Barnbougle Dunes and The Lost Farm from Friday, March 4 - Sunday, March 6, 2011.
36 tee times for 90 holes over three days (Fri - 36, Sat - 36, Sun 18) and 18 double rooms for three nights (Thur, Fri, Sat) have been reserved for us by Barnbougle Dunes management without a deposit being required as yet. It is my plan to get depsoits rolling in early next year, but owing to Christmas being imminent, the current climate and length of time until this event, I was very grateful that we could lock this in without having to call for participants to pay any $$$ now.
Current prices plus 10% (to allow for any price increase) for three nights accommodation and five rounds of golf is:
Twin-share: AU$550
Quad-share: AU$450
A weekend main event allows for mid-week extra days at the other clubs people wish to see, which are mainly private and harder to access at weekends, when they run members' comps.
If you are keen and have not yet indicated that, please post here or PM me so you can be added to the list in the OP
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Scott,
I hope to come. I wish I had more notice. What will the temperatures be?
Anthony
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16 months isn't enough notice?
Weather? Expect anything between mid-20s and low-40s.
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Scott,
As I have said before, I am keen on making this trip, but I do have to jettison my 2010 US Open week long tickets to pay for it.
Would extend to NZ for ParaB, KC and KC.
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For people that know. If i am going to travel half way around, I should catch Cape Kids while I am there. What else?
Anthony
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For people that know. If i am going to travel half way around, I should catch Cape Kids while I am there. What else?
Anthony
1-2 weeks in melbourne (Royal Melbourne (36), Kingston Heath, Commonwealth, Metro, Peninsula (36) Woodlands, National, St Andrews Beach, etc)
NSW in sydney, maybe The Lakes as well.
consider Royal Adelaide.
AFL football.
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David
Feb / Mar is cricket season ;D
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David
Feb / Mar is cricket season ;D
Written like a non-victorian.
Pre-season will be well and truly underway
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Announcing the addition of the one and only Mr Tom Huckaby to the field!
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And Pete Pittock, ladies and gentlemen!
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I'd love to go, especially if other would join me for another another week or two on the mainland playing some of Australia's other "greats."
Count me in, pending developments over the next year and a half...
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Kyle, there will be plenty of opportunities to see all the greats, and non-golf attractions aplenty (Uluru, Kakdu, the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney Harbour...). Good to have you onboard.
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Scott,
Thanks for confirming the date so early. Airlines start taking reservations 330 days prior to travel date so I have a reminder on my calendar for April already. Not sure how I'm going to do two weeks, but I plan to try.
Maybe Huckaby and I will finally get to play a round together.
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Hi Scott,
I'm happy to try and get a NZ contingent over there so please mark me down. Been to Barny twice now and just love the place.
Do you know if the accomodation will be at BD or LF? My understanding is the operations are going to be separate...
Cheers,
Scott
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Great news Scott, I'll add you.
At this stage the specifics of the TLF accommodation and dining are not known. They are expecting to have their own facilities by March 2011, but it's not set in stone. So we are booked at the BD accommodation for now, but the guy handling the bookings (who is aware of GCA and this thread, hi Gary!) is going to see what works best for us a bit closaer to the event.
Maybe Huckaby and I will finally get to play a round together.
Hey, what goes on on tour, stays on tour, right? Oh... a round, not around. Gotcha ;)
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Announcing the addition of the one and only Mr Tom Huckaby to the field!
Huckster
We get our "round" together after all ;)
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Scott,
Still in... You only live once and I'm not getting any younger. Better spend it while I have it.
Where do we send the mula?
I'd like to pay now if at all possible. At the rate the US dollar is freefalling ... I might have to exchange pesos for Aussie dollars.
Please advise.
Best,
Patrick
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I'm, not 100% sure of the answer to that, Patrick. I'll get back to you.
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I'll play if Mayhugh comes the long way round and picks me up in the personnal jet, Laura will serve Kummel all the way if it swings the deal!!
As for Aussie beer their largest glass is a UK half and it drinks like their cricket team. Big fiesty pour, settles slowly with a touch of fizz, first sip is impressive, quickly goes flat and leaves an after taste!! xx.
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I'll play if Mayhugh comes the long way round and picks me up in the personnal jet, Laura will serve Kummel all the way if it swings the deal!!
As for Aussie beer their largest glass is a UK half and it drinks like their cricket team. Big fiesty pour, settles slowly with a touch of fizz, first sip is impressive, quickly goes flat and leaves an after taste!! xx.
I'll get back to you on pickup time. Laura is certainly an inducement, but the Kummel less so.
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Any guesses as to how much the deposit will be?
I'm still looking for a buyer for one somewhat healthy kidney.
Or a few thousand t shirts, if you prefer that.
:)
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If my wife gives me permission I'm game to go. ;D
Maybe I can bribe her with a sidetrip for me and her special girlfriend to Tuscany !
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Matt,
You will be welcome in Auckland if you decide to make a side trip.
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Mark,
Not sure how long since your last visit to these shores but I believe you may be presently suprised as to the improved quality and range of beers we can now offer. Many small brewery's have started up in the last 5-10 years and are now producing on a commercial level a product much superior to the mass produced dross Australians were subjected to beforehand.
My personal favourite is the James Squires Golden and Amber Ales. Granted they will be served colder than you are used to :)
No bad thing as the mercury rises above 30degrees.
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I am in. Looking forward to Thornton's 50th!
A suggestion for those residing in the UK (eg Muldoon, FBD, Gawith etc etc) - why not take the 'long trip' down under? Direct flight from the UK to LA or San Francisco (10 to 12 hours). Get out for two or three days and play some golf, then get the flight to Sydney or Melbourne (12 to 14 hours). Alternately you could go from LA/SF to Auckland with Air NZ, get out and play some golf, then fly to Sydney, Melbourne or Adelaide (If desparate).
One ticket that I did was with Air NZ (recommended airline). Adelaide to Auckland to LA to Heathrow to Hong Kong (all Air NZ) then to Adelaide (Cathay Pacific). You ca do HK/Auckland if you wish.
I have also done at least two round the world-tickets with United (a lower airline rating IMO).
thanks Scott.
James B
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Any guesses as to how much the deposit will be?
I'm still looking for a buyer for one somewhat healthy kidney.
Or a few thousand t shirts, if you prefer that.
:)
Not sure on the deposit. I'll let you know. Probably a couple of hundred Aussie dollars, I would imagine.
The kidney is tempting, though. You never know when you're going to need spare parts!
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After playing Barnbougle twice and walking Lost Farm - you'll be glad you made the event.
They are both ideal for match play since the pin positions change the way you need to play both.
Taz is beautiful - try to see some of it too.
As for the Sandbelt - you can play "any" course in Australia by making the proper introduction and matching the schedule of the club.
That's entirely up to you, a few letters and your wallet.
You have no excuses regarding access.
As for the flight - I had 22 hours both times - and I don't sleep on a plane!
It's not that bad - you settle in after a while and accept the time on the plane.
Read, watch movies, talk with a travel mate, sleep, draw golf holes - you fill the time.
If your not sure .... go
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Thanks for the endorsement, Ian.
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Just a bump before the holidays for those who are still considering this. Shout out if you want your name added.
Will be getting the ball rolling after the New Year as far as locking things in and planning some fun stuff.
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I saw Mr. John Mayhugh's name on that list, continuing his GCA dream life! Must be tough my friend! Do you think I would fit in your duffel?
On another note, that is an absolutely fantastic deal <$400 US for three nights and five rounds on those two courses...wow.
Oh how I wish I could be a part of this one...
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How many people do you need for a group booking discount with an airline? Just thinking out aloud as it could save the US contingent a decent bit of coin, perhaps?
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And then there were 32... Welcome aboard David Kelly!
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I saw Mr. John Mayhugh's name on that list, continuing his GCA dream life! Must be tough my friend! Do you think I would fit in your duffel?
I'm not there yet! It's just that these events give me a rationale for making trips to places that I really want go to to anyway.
David Kelly liked Australia so much he's heading back. Good to see.
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I'd love to go, especially if other would join me for another another week or two on the mainland playing some of Australia's other "greats."
Count me in, pending developments over the next year and a half...
I notice my name never made it onto the master list... ;)
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I'd love to go, especially if other would join me for another another week or two on the mainland playing some of Australia's other "greats."
Count me in, pending developments over the next year and a half...
I notice my name never made it onto the master list... ;)
I was actually just going through looking for anyone I missed, Kyle. Sorry about that!
So without further ado...
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We have 33! Kyle Henderson is on board!
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Couple of bits of news to report.
1. I am very close to having costs for the Boomerang locked in and will post here when that is finalised.
2. Welcome aboard Mark Ferguson.
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OP updated with finalised pricing.
Please read and PM me with info as requested.
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Scott,
That pricing looks fantastic. Nice work! Now all I need you to do is tell me each day includes a lunch like the one at Sandwich, and you'll be a world champion for sure.
I'll take my chances on exchange rates, but I'm definitely in.
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Dustin Knight confirmed.
PLEASE READ UPDATED OP IF YOU HAVEN'T ALREADY
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Scott, I will be there. Please let me know if my PM to you last night failed to make its way to you. Further details of my intentions were in that PM.
cheers, Dieter
Any chance of Mike or Tom (or Bill for that matter) joining us to provide the designers perspective?
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Scott,
I really want to make it to this event but as a 15 year old, there isn't much chance considering how little cash I have.. :( Hopefully my parents will support me financially. :)
Pardon my ignorance, but what is the difference between singel accom, double etc..? I assume that's how many people stay in the room, no?
Also I'm pretty sure that I'd have to miss out on school time as well, and since I'd be doing my HSC that year, it probably isn't looking too good..
:(
Fingers crossed.
Pup
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Dieter Jones (PM replied to) and Sven Nilsen added.
Michael: Yeah, single = 1, double = 1 double bed, twin = 2 singles, triple = 3 single beds etc.
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Dieter Jones (PM replied to) and Sven Nilsen added.
Michael: Yeah, single = 1, double = 1 double bed, twin = 2 singles, triple = 3 single beds etc.
Scott
I am not sure, but I think each 'cabin' has one bathroom, irrespective of housing 1 through 4.
James B
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Pup
The HSC isn't until Nov - no ?
March leaves you with more than enough time to study for it ;)
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Thanks to those guys who have PM'd me their room requirements. If you have not and your name is on the list in the OP, could you please PM me ASAP with the level of accommodation you want and (if you have a preference), the people you have arranged to room with.
I will be finalising room requirements with Barnbougle Dunes quite soon. Those who haven't made contact will be placed in a room that suits the gaps we have.
Also, if you're on the list and won't be able to make it, please let me know.
I will have payment details soon, but those from the USA now look like they might save some money as the $AU drops a little from where it peaked.
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Still a go and can't wait.
Who wants to shack up with a Frenchman? ;D
I promise not to smoke any Gauloise...
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Patrick,
Happy to terrorise you with my year 10 french avec aussie accent ;D
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Pup
The HSC isn't until Nov - no ?
March leaves you with more than enough time to study for it ;)
You know what parents are like.. ::)
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Hahahaha, YEAHH!! ;D
My parents have relented to let me go, so put me down for this Scott.
I'll be happy to have quad or triple accomodation, and would like to stay with at least 1 person I've met before like Andrew or Terry. I'll take whatever is given though.
Let me know if there is anything I need to know or do Scott.
:) :)
Pup
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Welcome aboard padowan.
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Scott,
I really want to make it to this event but as a 15 year old, there isn't much chance considering how little cash I have.. :( Hopefully my parents will support me financially. :)
Pardon my ignorance, but what is the difference between singel accom, double etc..? I assume that's how many people stay in the room, no?
Also I'm pretty sure that I'd have to miss out on school time as well, and since I'd be doing my HSC that year, it probably isn't looking too good..
:(
Fingers crossed.
Pup
HSC at 16? You must be quite young for your year.
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Hi Scott,
I would be keen to attend - I go down to Barny every Feb/March for 99 holes (last weekend in Feb) - and would be down there the week before - can potentially fly back again the following weekend, and certainly Vic courses if they will be included in the rota.
Or - I can be an emergency - in anyone pulls out, I can jump in for them... would love to play in the event.
Cheers
BM
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Brett: If you want in, you're in!
I hope my post the other day didn't suggest this thing was closed up for new people to jump on board.
All I'm aiming to do is get some framework in place for the good folk at BD and so we have a basic booking set in stone that will cover what we need.
Extra players are more than welcome to sign up, even up to the last minute providing BD can accommodate them.
The more the merrier.
If my post the other day suggested otherwise, it was accidental.
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Scott,
I really want to make it to this event but as a 15 year old, there isn't much chance considering how little cash I have.. :( Hopefully my parents will support me financially. :)
Pardon my ignorance, but what is the difference between singel accom, double etc..? I assume that's how many people stay in the room, no?
Also I'm pretty sure that I'd have to miss out on school time as well, and since I'd be doing my HSC that year, it probably isn't looking too good..
:(
Fingers crossed.
Pup
HSC at 16? You must be quite young for your year.
Yes, I am one of the youngest in my year. ;)
I've got so much schoolwork this year, especially in English (mainly writing) which isn't my strong suit. I should get Scott to do my English work for me.. ;D
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Bump.
BTW, I am more than happy to host some of you Yanks at NSWGC if you would like a game there. I'm not sure of the dates and that but it would have to be on a sunday.
Don't miss your opportunity to play in this. :)
Pup
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Is everybody welcomed?
Anthony
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I can only host 3 people, and it has to be after 1 p.m. But I might get 'special permission' from the GM if we need to get off earlier.
So 3 people are welcomed. :)
Pup
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Scott,
I really want to make it to this event but as a 15 year old, there isn't much chance considering how little cash I have.. :( Hopefully my parents will support me financially. :)
Pardon my ignorance, but what is the difference between singel accom, double etc..? I assume that's how many people stay in the room, no?
Also I'm pretty sure that I'd have to miss out on school time as well, and since I'd be doing my HSC that year, it probably isn't looking too good..
:(
Fingers crossed.
Pup
HSC at 16? You must be quite young for your year.
Yes, I am one of the youngest in my year. ;)
I've got so much schoolwork this year, especially in English (mainly writing) which isn't my strong suit. I should get Scott to do my English work for me.. ;D
One thing I learnt at school was procrastination and 8 weeks of cramming is not enough for a very good mark (although I consider 80 to be ok). Good to see you have the right attitude.
I live in Sydney, and I assume you do too, so you can host me at NSWGC anytime you would like. ;D
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I might have the right attitude, but that itself doesn't stop my procrastinating. :(
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Well you're only in year 11 so plenty of time to procrastinate yet...
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3 questions Scott,
When do we have to pay deposits (sorry if you've already said)?
Are caddies compulsory? I'd like to keep costs at a minimum.
What is the accomodation like? Tents? 5 star?
:)
Pup
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3 questions Scott,
When do we have to pay deposits (sorry if you've already said)?
I am working out the best way for us to handle all of this at the moment and will advise ASAP.
Are caddies compulsory? I'd like to keep costs at a minimum.
No, caddies can be booked - I beleieve that would need to be done in advance - but aren't compulsory.
What is the accomodation like? Tents? 5 star?
I'll let those who have stayed previously take this one. I am led to believe we are talking comfortable but not Ritzy.[/quote]
Is everybody welcomed?
Anthony
I'm not sure if this was to me re: the trip or to Michael re: NSWGC?
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I've had messages from Boomerangers who are starting to piece together an itinerary of between a week and three weeks, some coming alone and other with wife and some with wife and child(ren).
So many different needs and interests, and so much variety on offer in Australia, so rather than give specific advice to those looking for some pointers, here is some general info you can use to work out what you most want to see.
Sydney
A beautiful city with great beaches, and early March is still great beach weather. The Blue Mountains an hour west are a great sight to see (The Three Sisters etc), as well as walking the harbour foreshore and seeing The Harbour Bridge, Opera House etc. Ferry over the harbour to Manly is great, too.
Golf worth playing:
New South Wales Golf Club (Sydney - MacKenzie/Apperley)
The Lakes (Sydney - Mike Clayton just did a redesign)
Newcastle (90mins north of Sydney - Eric Apperley)
Canberra
While not necessarily a must-see, Canberra is the nation's capital, located roughly halfway between Sydney and Melbourne. It has our parliament house - a kinda cool building, the War Memorial - very interesting, and if kids are with you (or kids at heart) Questacon science centre is a must - lots of fun intereative stuff. Manuka is a great dining area and were you driving between Sydney and Melbourne, it's a sensible place to spend a night.
Golf worth playing:
Royal Canberra - bit of a dumb blonde, you'd not want to miss the best in Syd or Melb to play it instead, but if it will be in addition, why not?!
Melbourne (and surrounds)
I have actually not been to Melbourne (8hrs south of Sydney by car, or an hour by plane), but is is well known as a cultural and shopping hub with a great cafe and small bar culture, world class restaurants. It has been described to me as a really European city. It is also Golf HQ for Australia. Mornington Peninsula is nearby and doable as an overnight trip. The Great Ocean Road is another excursion you can do from melbourne, allowing a few days.
I'd invite any of our Melbourne-based posters to dispell any bullshit in that, add their own thoughts etc.
Golf worth playing:
Royal Melbourne (West - MacKenzie/Alec Russell, East - Russell)
Kingston Heath (Dan Soutar, bunkering by MacKenzie)
National Moonah (Norman - on Mornington)
National Old (RTJ Jr - on Mornington)
St Andrews Beach (Doak - on Mornington)
Other Sandbelt courses such as Victoria, Metropolitan, Commonwealth, Woodlands, Peninsula and Yarra Yarra are also highly rated.
Tasmania (for the Boomerang)
There is bugger all for your missus and child(ren) to do around the vicinity of Bridport where Barnbougle Dunes and The Lost Farm are located. Unless they play golf, in which case they are very welcome to play with us.
Golf worth playing:
We're playing The Lost Farm (Coore) and Barnbougle Dunes (Doak/Clayton) and they are the only courses worth playing down there.
For non-golfers while we are at the Boomerang
I would suggest that's a good chance for non-golfing spouses and children to either spend some time seeing Sydney (1hr flight north of Bridport), Melbourne (a short hop of a flight Melb > launceston or a ferry ride (a few hours) from Melbourne).
Or if there will be kids in tow or they could spend the three days on the Gold Coast in Queensland (90mins flight from Melbourne, an hour from Sydney) going to the theme parks (Warner Bros MovieWorld, Dreamworld, SeaWorld, Wet and Wild Water Park) etc.
There are heaps of other ideas of stuff they could do. That's just a couple.
The outback
You can fly into Alice Springs for a taste of the outback and can easily get to Uluru (Ayers Rock) from there. About 2hrs flight from anywhere on the east coast).
While not world class, Alice Springs GC does get some love in Aus.
Great Barrier Reef
Up in North Queensland choose from Hamilton Island, Airlie Beach, Lindeman Island, Hayman Island etc to see the reef. Hamilton Island has an airport and you can do daytrips to Hardy Reef by boat or sea plane to see the reef, do some snorkeling, go on the glass bottom boat to see the coral etc. I highly recommend it if you can spare the time.
Western Australia and South Australia
A fair way west (though Adelaide, capital of SA, is nearish to Melbourne) and if you are on a restricted itinerary, perhaps too time consuming to include. I cannot vouch for either, but have heard good things about both.
New Zealand
The South Island has the best scenery, but the North Island (where Auckland is, if you're flying Air New Zealand from the West Coast of the US and have a stopover there) has the best golf. If doing a one-way car hire between arriving from the US and going to SAus or vice versa, you could buy US > Auckland air tickets and do the NZ > Aus legs with a local carrier.
Though it is quite small, so driving around can be done and there is a car ferry from Picton at the top of the South Island to Wellington at the bottom of the North Island which takes 90 mins and takes you through Marlborough Sound which is really scenic. New Zealand has scenery the equal of anything I have seen in the world.
If doing NZ before Aus, you could go US > Auckland > drive south to Christchurch > Syd/Melb. If doing NZ after Aus, you could go Syd/Melb > Christchurch > drive north to Auckland > fly home.
Golf worth playing:
Paraparaumu Beach (a links near Wellington, the drive to the course is via a pretty coastline)
Cape Kidnappers (Doak's course, near Hawke's Bay on the east coast of the North Island)
Titirangi (a MacKenzie course in Auckland)
Kauri Cliffs (clifftop course, up north of Auckland)
South Island I am no help, sorry.
Travel tools
* For flights within Australia the best airlines are Jetstar and Virgin Blue.
* GoogleMaps overestimates driving times quite a bit.
* All golf clubs listed in Aus are accessible with a friendly phone call or letter and a relatively healthy wallet. Expect to pay from AU$100 for some Sandbelt bargains to $170 or so for NSWGC to $395 for Royal Melbourne without an introduction.
* Easycar has ben good to me with rental cars and I see they now service Australia. Worth looking into.
* If you don't want a car at the Boomerang, Barnbougle Dunes does airport transfers, but they are slightly pricey.
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Scott, thanks for a great post and such a helpful guide. This is going to be crucial in getting my wife to commit to this trip! :)
I am really looking forward to this as it will be the first overseas trip with my daughter. I would highly encourage other Aussies and perhaps Kiwies as well on some travel tips. I am planning on a 2 week trip and I would like to get as much packed in as possible. I would especially appreciate tips on traveling with children and places that they will enjoy the most.
Pebble Beach will have to wait...
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Mornington does not require an overnight trip, in fact you could play 36 holes down there in a day nin March and be back in Melbourne for dinner. You could play 54 and have a late dinner.
A drive down the Bellarine and then over to Port Fairy will take in some good golf (Barwon Heads, Port Fairy) but you'd want to be in the country for a long time to bother with this.
There is plenty for wives/girlfriends/kids to do within striking distance of Bridport, so don't ship them off unreasonably unless they offer!
In Brisbane there is Royal QLD, but while that is my home club, Brisbane isn't a destination I would reccomend if on a trip to Australia - better off going further north, unless you want to go to Steve Irwins (RIP) Zoo.
South Australia / Adelaide is worth a visit, especially if you like red wine and golf. The same can be said of Perth, but it's a long journey over that way and in the wrong direction.
If you go to NZ, you must go to the South Island, and you can then play visit/play Jacks Point and also the hidden gem Arrowtown. I played both recently and Arrowtown is sensational (thanks to Thomson and Clayton for the reccomendation!)
Don't bother with Kauri Cliffs, there is much better golf to be played on the North Island. Some of it listed above by Scott.
The best bet if travelling solo would be.
Sydney - play NSW, Royal Sydney, The Lakes and head up to Newcastle if you have time. While there, visit Balmoral Beach or Bondi depending on your tastes, or both! Then of course the CBD and Circular Quay to see the famous sites. I would bother with the Blue Mountains if you're going to NZ, in fact I wouldn't bother seeing many things at all if you're going to NZ!
Melbourne - play RM, KH, Woodlands, Commonwealth as must plays in Melbourne. Optional extras are Peninsula, Victoria & Metro.
The city is wonderful, make sure you go and see a pre-season AFL match to experience the sport and the local 'culture', certainly a 'must do' when in Melbourne.
Then you can head to the Mornington Peninsula. Must plays are St. Andrew's Beach and The National (Old&Moonah). Optional extras Portsea, Moonah Legends and you could play National Ocean for comedic purposes.
You can also go to the Bellarine and beyond (the other side of Port Philip Bay) and see Barwon Heads, 13th Beach, Port Fairy (3 hours drive) but none of these are must plays.
Tassie - fly into Launceston, go straight to Bridport, check in and play as much golf as possible at Barny and Lost Farm. Launceston Golf Club is ok, but do not give up a game at Bridport for one in Launceston! There are some other great toursit attractions in Tassie, but at the end of the day, it's a golf trip, so just play golf.
South Australia - if you like your wine, you really should head over to SA/Adelaide. Have dinner at Macgill Estate, go to the Barossa, McLaren Vale etc. If you are there, play Royal Adelaide and optional extras are Kooyonga and Grange, but you won't miss a great deal if you don't.
I'll leave NZ suggestions for another day, having just recently returned - its an amazing place with some amazing golf.
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I'm not sure I would dismiss the area around Bridport so easily for non-golfers. My other half was very happy to come down to Tassie with me when she found out about Platypus House at Beauty Point, maybe an hour west of Barnbougle, and she very much enjoyed visiting the Bridstowe lavender farm. And if you're interested in wine, you could spend several splendid days touring the producers in the Pipers' Brook area - I know there's lots of good wine touring in Oz, but the Tassie ones make far more European style wines, because of the cooler climate.
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So much depends on how much time you are down for the total stay. If it was around the two week mark I would recomend the following for NZ and personally in that timeframe for the overall trip I would only be picking only two general destinations outside of Barnbougle and even that might be tight.
New Zealand
The South Island is unbelievably stunning but is a trip in itself and just not doable in a tight timeframe. Queenstown has become quite a destination but it would involve a flight in and out and would add a reasonable amount of expense as well as time (its cheaper to probably fly Auckland - Melb than Auck - Queenstown). I would say the same for Kauri Cliffs situated in the amazing Bay of Islands.
In brief I would fly into Auckland (direct connections with West Coast of US) and out of Wellington (direct flight to Melbourne). I would suggest - Day 1 play Titirangi in Auckland staying the night (biggest city in NZ). Day 2 drive south to Taupo (3hrs) and play Kinloch (Jack Nicklaus Signature Course which is modern Jack and pretty special). After round drive 1.5hrs to Hawkes Bay and stay (depending on budget The Farm at Kidnappers is an option). Day 3 Play Kidnappers and then PM drive through to Paraparaumu (3hrs). Option to either stay near Paraparaumu or drive 45min further south and stay in Wellington (Capital of NZ and really nice city but remember you have to drive back out in the morning). Day 4 AM play Paraparaumu Beach, PM either fly out to Melb or stay night in Wgtn and fly out to Melb next day. Total four days, four rounds of golf at a Mackenzie, Nicklaus, Doak and Russell course, four really managable drives covering a good chunk of the North Island with some great sights and scenery.
Would be happy to host anyone making the trip here at Paraparaumu Beach.
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Travel tools
* For flights within Australia the best airlines are Jetstar and Virgin Blue.
Disagree, I'd strongly recommend QANTAS on the basis of their larger numbered aircraft fleet. An unserviceability by these other carriers (or heaven forbid, Tiger Airways) can lead to extra lengthy delays/rescheds while alternative aircraft are procured.
Also read carefully baggage conditions if you're traveling with golf clubs, going over your allowance or not booking a checked baggage allowance before-hand can add big $$'s to your travel costs.
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On the other hand, the Tiger Airways terminal at Melbourne airport - specifically the arrivals area - is something worth seeing. I thought I'd seen some basic airport facilities in my time, but that one took the biscuit....
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For Sydney, like Scott said, a ferry trip across the harbour to Manly is a must. If you want a spectacular sunset go to the North Head lookout, with views down the coast towards Bondi Beach and across the 3 harbours (North, Middle and Port Jackson) to the city and North Sydney. It is quite a spectacular view, with some room for a picnic. I would also choose Manly Beach over Bondi or Balmoral, less crowded, bigger, more scenic and never too far away from a pub (I'm also from Manly so there is a bit of favoritism there). For those with smaller children, a 10 minute walk from Manly Beach (which is a surf beach) is Shelley Beach, where there are no waves and some snorkeling can be done. There are also a number of coastal walks or harbour walks which provide some spectacular scenery through the many National Parks which line the shoreline.
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Travel tools
* For flights within Australia the best airlines are Jetstar and Virgin Blue.
Disagree, I'd strongly recommend QANTAS on the basis of their larger numbered aircraft fleet. An unserviceability by these other carriers (or heaven forbid, Tiger Airways) can lead to extra lengthy delays/rescheds while alternative aircraft are procured.
Also read carefully baggage conditions if you're traveling with golf clubs, going over your allowance or not booking a checked baggage allowance before-hand can add big $$'s to your travel costs.
+1 with Terry's post
They may be cheaper but in my experiences their flight scheduling is much less reliable.
And I also concur with much of what Duncan said as well. I live about an hour and a bit south of Sydney in the beachside heaven that is Wollongong. If any GCAer from O/S who comes to NSW and wants to sample a quieter pace of Aust. life - get in contact with me.
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Maybe see the Great Barrier Reef before it's too late:
http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-04-08/great-barrier-reef-at-risk-as-coal-ship-traffic-may-jump-67-.html
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I'm happy to get some golf arranged in Perth if anyone is interested, from Melbourne its a 4 hour flight.
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What is a best way to visit the Great Barrier Reef? How many days does it take to get a good experience?
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If your club has a reciprocal with Royal Sydney I strongly recommend staying in the clubhouse at Rose Bay. It's a simple bus or ferry into the city centre and there are some very good restaurants nearby. Doyles at Watsons Bay is well known but really worth it.
If you are with family and want to get away for a couple of days in the middle of Sydney I suggest the Pittwater YHA. Very comfortable, plenty to do and a great bus and boat ride all in less than 90 minutes from the CBD.
SA is great for wining and dining, as a D'Arenburg fan lunching at the vineyard was very special. It's not too far from Melbourne, I was devirted to Adelaide on a Sydeny-Melbourne flight!
Ayres Rock is miles from Alice Springs (5+ hour drive or 45 minute flight) do not make the mistake that many do!!
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What is a best way to visit the Great Barrier Reef? How many days does it take to get a good experience?
Richard,
I've spent a fair bit of time up there and I would say you could have a good experience in three or four days. Obviously longer is better, but knowing the timeframe you have in mind for the whole visit, that is reasonable.
The two things that are brilliant to do, IMO, are Whitsunday Island - after which the Whitsunday group of islands is named, and Hardy Reef.
Whitsunday Island is an uninhabited island close to any or Hayman, Hamilton or Lindeman Islands. Idyllic, great beach and water etc. Boats do day trips.
Hardy Reef is a great spot to see the coral and GBR marine life. About two hours by fast ferry/boat from Hamilton Island, slightly less from Hayman, slightly more from Lindeman. Or you can get a seaplane, which is awesome and you fly over Heart Reef, which, as its name suggests, is shaped almost perfectly like a love heeart. The missus will love it!
At Hardy Reef is a floating platform you can use as a base for snorkelling (for anyone) or scuba diving (if you are licensed) and there is a glass-bottom semi-sub boat that lets you see the coral while staying dry, as well as the fish and other marine life. And an underwater room in the platform to sit in and watch the fish.
IMO Hamilton Island is the best to stay at, especially for a brief trip, because you fly in there, so there is no time added transferring to another island. It also has a good selection of restaurants and watersports.
The downside is that it has really low tides in front of the main hotel, so the low tide times can mean 100m or so of muddy sand before the water starts. Not ideal, but not a deal breaker for mine.
I would go with:
Day 1 - Fly in from Sydney/Melbourne etc (about 2.5hr from Sydney).
Day 2 - Daytrip to Hardy Reef
Day 3 - Whitsunday Island
Day 4 - Relax, enjoy the island (there is a great hill you can walk/drive a golf buggy up and the views are amazing, 360 degrees of water and other islands) and fly out in the late PM.
Just my two cents.
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I have just sent either an email or PM to everyone on the list of attendees in the OP with info about a small deposit to secure their place in the field.
Please make sure you read it (let me know if it doesn't arrive) and get back to me with any questions/issues.
Of course the door remains open as always to those of you who haven't joined the fray yet but are thinking about it. The more the merrier.
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Some deposit details added, attendees list updated.
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Scott,
Does the golf start on the friday morning or the saturday? I'm just starting to look at flights to Launceston, and noticed Jetstar are already booked out around these dates.
Cheers,
Andy
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Golf begins Friday morning, Andy.
The discussions I've had with the guys at Barny Dunes are that the three nights' accommodation is Thurs, Fri and Sat, with the golf played Fri-Sun, 36 holes a day.
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The cost of baggage was higher than flying costs for me when I toured.
(their internal flights are super cheap by my standards)
I had two weeks of clothes and managed 37 pounds with clubs and gifts!
Its $10 per pound over the limit which I thought was 28 pounds - my average cost was $90 but one leg was $120.
If your clubs are 15 pounds that could be $150 dollars.
The Tips I can offer:
You only pay once - I went to Adelaide and then onto Sydney one day - I paid once.
You can prepay for overage at half the rate by buying the extra weight on line.
Put your heaviest item in your carry on - it does not count - mine had books!
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Scott,
Does the golf start on the friday morning or the saturday? I'm just starting to look at flights to Launceston, and noticed Jetstar are already booked out around these dates.
I am no aeroplane expert but it would be far more likely that the jetstar flights had not been issued rather than sold out.
FWIW. I am a fan of virgin. don't pay extra for golf clubs and they have been looked after welll in my experiences.
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Scott,
Does the golf start on the friday morning or the saturday? I'm just starting to look at flights to Launceston, and noticed Jetstar are already booked out around these dates.
I am no aeroplane expert but it would be far more likely that the jetstar flights had not been issued rather than sold out.
FWIW. I am a fan of virgin. don't pay extra for golf clubs and they have been looked after welll in my experiences.
You could be right, but when it lists a time/date for the flight and says "full" I think it is sold out. However I would expect more flights to be arranged. And for a student, Jetstar is much cheaper (even with extra luggage costs).
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The Tips I can offer:
Put your heaviest item in your carry on - it does not count - mine had books!
Most, probably all, carriers have a 7kg (15lbs approx) limit for carry on
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Most, probably all, carriers have a 7kg (15lbs approx) limit for carry on
Tiger airways have started wighing carry on luggage. Most of the others have a bit of leeway, i think.
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List of received deposits updated.
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Three more deposits received. Which makes 9 total.
25 other soldiers listed as keen (34 of us total at this stage).
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Scott,
Just checking one of those 3 deposits was mine. Paid on 27/04 $100AU. Please let me know if there has been a problem.
thanks
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Scott,
Just checking one of those 3 deposits was mine. Paid on 27/04 $100AU. Please let me know if there has been a problem.
thanks
Me also Scott, though I only paid yesterday. I think it can take up to 3 working days for it to appear on yours.
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Sean, Terry,
Both have come through. Thanks for that. Will add you to the list of deposits paid in the OP.
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Alert!!! Alert!!!
There are some deals going on with Air NZ and I was initially very anxious to pull the trigger now for the flight. But the fares are still in the $1800-$2000 range. Is that still too high? Seems like it.
I'm going to pass on NZ this time around based on the advice. Same goes for the outback and barrier reef. I'll try to keep it to the New South Wales region and Taz over a two week stretch. Getting three weeks off is going to be difficult. That's unless I join the unemployed, in which case I'll have all the time in the world to work for food / shelter ;D ...
I'm going to probably push for leaving SF on Thu. 2-24-11 / Fri. 2-25-11, but the question is where should I go first? I was thinking Sydney, but maybe that's cutting it tight for getting in some sights / scenes / golf before having to make it into Taz. I was considering a Sydney to Taz to Melbourne to Sydney loop.
For Taz, is it better to fly into Hobart or another airport?
Looking forward to this.
Cheers,
Patrick
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Patrick,
If your first port of call in Tasmania is Barnbougle, then fly to Launceston. If you want to do some sightseeing for a few days then you could fly into Hobart and drive up.
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Alert!!! Alert!!!
There are some deals going on with Air NZ and I was initially very anxious to pull the trigger now for the flight. But the fares are still in the $1800-$2000 range. Is that still too high? Seems like it.
I'm going to pass on NZ this time around based on the advice. Same goes for the outback and barrier reef. I'll try to keep it to the New South Wales region and Taz over a two week stretch. Getting three weeks off is going to be difficult. That's unless I join the unemployed, in which case I'll have all the time in the world to work for food / shelter ;D ...
I'm going to probably push for leaving SF on Thu. 2-24-11 / Fri. 2-25-11, but the question is where should I go first? I was thinking Sydney, but maybe that's cutting it tight for getting in some sights / scenes / golf before having to make it into Taz. I was considering a Sydney to Taz to Melbourne to Sydney loop.
For Taz, is it better to fly into Hobart or another airport?
Looking forward to this.
Cheers,
Patrick
Patrick,
When you are in Sydney I will be happy to either shelter you, show you around, drive you around, take you out for a night, or host you for a game. It can either be one of or a combination of any of these. I will be flying into Launceston when going to Tassie.
Is it just yourself or is there a +1?
Cheers,
Andy
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Scott, it looks like I'll most likely be going to this. I'll try and pay you by next Sunday.
Pup
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Cheers mate.
Thanks all who have sent deposits along. Sorry I haven't replied to all to say they have been received, been away travelling and without web access for the most part.
I'll check my accounts tomorrow and update the OP.
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Just a friendly bump for those who've not paid their deposit yet.
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For those that sent deposit checks to me - I've not cashed any of them. I'll wait and deposit them around the time I send the lump payment to Scott.
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Scott,
Just sent the deposit, let me know when you get it.
Cheers
Andy
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Just to clarify for people who maybe haven't been in a GCA event before, bringing mates who you think would enjoy kicking it with 20 architecture geeks for three days is highly encouraged.
The likes of Joe Buehler, Nick Leefe and Ian Dickson are mainstays of Buda Cups etc, so don't be shy.
A few guys are already planning to have ringers come along for the ride.
PS- deposits updated.
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I have just confirmed a trip accompanying 16 of our clubs members the weekend prior to the boomerang and will be staying on to attend the event. Should anyone wish to arrive early and really soak up the atmosphere there will be two spare spots in our group from the Tues through Thurs prior to the event, should anyone wish to arrive early and require a tee time let me know. I have already booked a group and extra cabin on each of these days. we will alternate between Lost Farm and Barny. Good Times ahead!
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I am down there the weekend (5days) before also, so it would mean flying back down to Barnbougle 4 days later for another 3 days - sounds pretty good, but not sure if I would still have a family to come back to... I can be emergency.
I live on the Bellarine Peninsula, my home club is 13th Beach: http://www.13thbeach.net/ - 36 holes - am happy to host anyone that is interested. Barwon Heads GC: http://www.bhgc.com.au is next door, and has some really interesting o/n acc - a bit like Fawlty Towers. Most enjoyable, jacket and tie after 6pm. Also great stay & play rates with Full board.
I would also recommend staying at Victoria GC on the Sandbelt: http://www.victoriagolf.com.au - excellent experience, golf & stay packages are very good, and the course is hosting the Australian Masters in November - so should be good. FULL Board, golf and acc currently house guest at A$265 twin share. that is breakfast, lunch, dinner, golf acc for $265!
I will second the things to do nearby Bridport - there are many excellent wineries and tasting rooms. At that time of the year it can still be quite hot and there are tons of beachs around, including the beautiful one at Barnbougle. The will be a day spa set up by then, giving the girls time to amuse themselves. Hobart and Launceston have some interesting historical things to do, particularly Hobart, with it's links to colonial times and convicts.
Ratho GL at Bothwell would also worth a visit: http://rathogolf.com/ with a claim to Australia's oldest golf course and the oldest outside Scotland.
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Lately there has been much activity updating the attendees' list, but unfortunately it has been exclusively a case of THIS (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNQRfBAzSzo) ;D
So it is my pleasure to welcome Colin Macqueen aboard!
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aahh this is something to work for. I too would stay a few weeks and play as much of the rest of the great world of golf there as possible.
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It would be fantastic to have you down there, Tiger.
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List of received deposits updated.
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I am interested, running it by my mate...
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Good to hear, Bill.
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I would actually do this over Bandon...how much are flights to Australia?
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how much are flights to Australia?
$1000 return.
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Do it, Jordan!
I know both Mike Whitaker and John Mayhugh have been hunting airfares recently, so they will have accurate info (not saying David's number isn't accurate) on flights.
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how much are flights to Australia?
$1000 return.
Jet lag taking a glider, however, lasts longer.
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Do it, Jordan!
I know both Mike Whitaker and John Mayhugh have been hunting airfares recently, so they will have accurate info (not saying David's number isn't accurate) on flights.
I'm going back and forth trying to decide between using frequent flier miles and buying a ticket. Roundtrip airfares from Louisville are in the $1200 range. A little shorter trip from Seattle, but that may have no impact at all on pricing.
It seems that if you buy tickets early, the price is a bit higher than if you wait until a couple of months before departure.
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Do it, Jordan!
I know both Mike Whitaker and John Mayhugh have been hunting airfares recently, so they will have accurate info (not saying David's number isn't accurate) on flights.
I'm going back and forth trying to decide between using frequent flier miles and buying a ticket. Roundtrip airfares from Louisville are in the $1200 range. A little shorter trip from Seattle, but that may have no impact at all on pricing.
It seems that if you buy tickets early, the price is a bit higher than if you wait until a couple of months before departure.
ouch...
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I was checking few weeks ago and they were running $1200 to $1600 out of SeaTac. Not cheap...
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I'd be interested to work out how much of the flight money you recouped from the fact the Boomerang is AU$550 (currently US$453) for three 36-hole days and three nights' accommodation.
My gut, knowing the Bandon prices loosely from dreaming my way around its website, reckons the overall difference would be a few hundred at worst.
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I'd be interested to work out how much of the flight money you recouped from the fact the Boomerang is AU$550 (currently US$453) for three 36-hole days and three nights' accommodation.
My gut, knowing the Bandon prices loosely from dreaming my way around its website, reckons the overall difference would be a few hundred at worst.
If only they'd hurry up with inventing the damn transporter. We'd be asking Scotty to beam us all over the planet in order to capture the ever elusive Modern GCA Grand Slam. It ain't just the KP, Buda & Dixie Cup any more!
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Not as close as I might have thought, but still a pretty major difference.
Barnbougle/Lost Farm in March
Three 36-hole days, three-nights' accom: US$453
Bandon in March
Three 36-hole days, three nights' accom: US$800
I guess it depends if you still need to fly to get to Bandon and how much that would then cost you. Plus, for the US guys I realise three days in bandon and then home is a grand long weekend. To fly to Aus for three days would be lunacy, so then the costs of extending creep in.
All-in-all, GCAers have two very fine golfing options for next March!
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Did we work out if Jordan is coming Down Under to show our ladies what a MAN looks like?
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Did we work out if Jordan is coming Down Under to show our ladies what a MAN looks like?
Scott, us boys don't need any more competition!!!
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Alrighty then.
I've been chatting to the bloke at Barny Dunes who is helping me herd cats and this is the plan.
He has kindly been holding rooms and tee times for us without a concrete ideal of numbers, but we really need to get that ironed out soon so either (a) he can release the un-needed rooms and tee times for other guests, or (b) we can still get the extra beds and tee times we need should we exceed what is reserved.
With that in mind, I've chosen the end of July as when I'd like to do that (seven months before the festivities).
At that time we will see how many we have, book the applicable rooms and formalise the booking. To confirm yourself as "in", we need one hundred of whatever your country calls its currency as a deposit either by cheque to John Mayhugh in the USA (PM him for address), by bank deposit to me in Aus or by Paypal to me from anywhere in the world.
However, "the more the merrier" has been and will continue to be the motto, so you can by all means throw your hat in the ring after that date, I just can't guarantee there will be accommodation available on-site or room in the field, so obviously the sooner the better.
Any questions, post them here or shoot me a PM/email.
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One thi ng I forgot to add - if your name is on the list in the OP and you won't be able to take part, please let me know.
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Giving this a bump as we move closer to finalising the booking.
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Two weeks to go until we book this.
If you want to take part, be sure to get a deposit to me or John Mayhugh before then
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I am in, +1
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Great to see Bill. Just back after a week without internet while holidaying (my missus was impressed (and shocked!)), will update the OP with you as an addition.
Any more maybes set to become confirmed starters?!
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Rob Miller, come on down!
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Scott,
I assume you're still hoping to finalise within a few days? I'll give Bennett a boot up the bum and confirm room request.
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Thanks Terry.
Yeah, I will be contacting Barnbougle over the weekend to confirm numbers and release the extra rooms and tee times they have been holding for us.
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Scott,
Check you PM's
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Done mate, you should have one back at you.
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And then there were 30! Dustin and David added.
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Rob Miller, come on down!
Best follow through on the trip, no doubt:
(http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee169/wcb323/Old%20Mac/DSCN0259.jpg)
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I am very excited to report that Joe Fairey's son Joseph, who joined us at the Buda last year, is getting married - but sorry to say the big day is March 5 and as such Joe will not be able to join us in Tasmania as he had planned.
Joe and Joseph are both great blokes, so as sorry as I am that it means Joe cannot join us, it's undoubtedly cause for celebration for those who know one or both of the Faireys.
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I just emailed you Scott.
I doubt my knee will have 36 holes a day in it, but seeing as my Scottish trip is looking less likely by the day, I might as well go to Tassie & meet some nice people.
You did invite 'nice' people, didn't you Scott?
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I did, lots of them. As far as I know, I'm the only dodgy character lined up to be there.
Great to hear you're coming.
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Andrew Summerell deposit received. The field grows past 30...
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The entries are pouring in on the buzzer!
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I do not have - and cannot find - an email address for the following Boomerang participants:
Patrick Kiser
Bill Brightly
Terry Thornton
Matthew Delahunty
Sean Walsh
David Elvins
Could you guys please PM/email me ASAP to let me know what adress I can get you on? Will make sharing info about the event etc much easier for me.
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Hi guys,
Just making final preparations for what is sure to be an amazing week. I had previously planned to be at Barnbougle all week prior, however circumstances have prevented this happening. I do however plan to arrive in Melbourne on the 1st of March and plan to play Kingston Heath/ Metro/Royal or make the trip to mornington for National and St Andrews beach. Just wondering what others who are attending have planned that week and should anyone be around to hook up for some pre boomerang entertainment??????
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Dustin,
I will probably be in Melbourne by the 1st, if so happy to meet up for a hit that day. Already have a game organised for me on the 2nd.
Will let you know when I'm certain of my arrival date (next week sometime)
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Dustin,
Will be in Melbourne prior to Tassie. Available Mon 28th and Tue 1st if you (or anyone else) would like to have a hit somewhere
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How the time flies...
Five weeks from now we will be reclining after 36 at Barnbougle Dunes, hopefully with a cold beer in hand.
Four weeks from today many of us will be arriving in Melbourne for a full week of pre-Boomerang golf and drinking.
Pumped is an understatement!
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Terry,
Still waiting for tee time confirmations from a couple of clubs, I will let you know in the next week what my itinerary is when confirmed. We may have a spot for 36 at The National on Tues 1st if you are interested.
Scott,
Really looking forward to it!
After playing with Scott yesterday it may be wise to keep your wallets tight boys! :) Our host may be hitting some form!
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Just a reminder, get your merch orders in to Scott if you would like a limited edition Boomerang polo with matching cap (sadly tie and hankerchief not available).
cheers, Dieter
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Terry,
Still waiting for tee time confirmations from a couple of clubs, I will let you know in the next week what my itinerary is when confirmed. We may have a spot for 36 at The National on Tues 1st if you are interested.
Sounds ideal, I have recips at National
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Can i order the Boomerang jacket complete with green and gold stripes!
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All participants should have just received an email about paying their balance for the Barnbougle Dunes accom/golf/dinner. If you didn't get it, let me know.
Now - how to choose teams? Given this is the first year, we don't have the ready-made North v South of the KP or GB/Europe v ROW of the Buda.
The 38 participants are from:
1 Queensland (but could also be branded as Scotland if need be)
13 New South Wales
5 Victoria
2 Tasmania
2 South Australia
2 Western Australia
3 New Zealand
10 United States
Any ideas - preferably with some link (mainland v islands and OS? East Coast Aus v The Rest?)... Shoot!
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38 well done Scott. There are folks round the world wathcing this INUAGURAL event with great interest.
As a number of the names seem to be new to GCA events can I suggest
Old Lags against The Virgins?
Enjoy
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Not a bad idea, Tony.
We have a good contingent of non-GCAers and occasional posters coming - could be fun to pit them against those of us who are long-term members and/or frequent posters...
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Scott
Am looking forward to seeing some old acquaintences and meeting some new. Thanks for organising everything.
A slight aside - not many from Vic have put their hand up - esp. given they are so close ? ;)
Another version of play - you also could pit NSW v The rest of Oz v Overseas (eg: NZ + US)
I will be staying in Melbourne from Sunday through Tuesday and can be contacted on 0458 737 093 should anyone want to try and hook up in the evenings. I can also offer any participants a lift to Launceston on the Sunday after the event if need be ?
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A slight aside - not many from Vic have put their hand up - esp. given they are so close ?
You're a stirrer, Kevin.
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A slight aside - not many from Vic have put their hand up - esp. given they are so close ?
You're a stirrer, Kevin.
David,
you're such a nice bloke we forget you're from Victoria
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Terry,
Still waiting for tee time confirmations from a couple of clubs, I will let you know in the next week what my itinerary is when confirmed. We may have a spot for 36 at The National on Tues 1st if you are interested.
Sounds ideal, I have recips at National
Dustin,
any update on this?
Terry
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The 3 Paraparaumu boys heading over for the Boomerang have room for a fourth at The National for the Mon, Tue, Wed following the event (March 7-9) for any stragglers looking for a game.
See you all soon!
As for the comp, does not look like any clear geographic delineation; perhaps 13 NSW, 5 VIC, 1 QUE vs. the remaining 19 ?
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13 NSW, 5 VIC, 1 QUE vs.
NO! ;)
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Convicts vs 'The Rest'?
ps this would be really funny. Just imagine NSW and Victoria teaming up together. LOL
It won't happen, and Terry T - it was an obvious joke.
James B
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;D
If NSW and Vic could get together, maybe there'd be some hope for Israel and Palestine?
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Talking about Vic vs NSW, it looks like the final of the One Day cricket might be between these two teams at the MCG this Sunday.
If it happens, anyone in town is welcome to come along to the MCC for a drink on Sunday night.
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Bugger. I arrive first thing Monday morning.
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I like JB's
Convicts vs Columbus/ new world
Capt cooks vs Spanish armada...
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Scott et al,
"My hearts in the Highlands..." so I guess I should be lumped, in general, with the overseas contingent but there is NO PLACE I'd rather be that in dear old Oz!!!!!
Just to clarify my origins. Yes I have distinctly Scottish origins, yes I reside in Queensland, yes I have resident status and am allowed to vote, no I have no convict heritage, am I Old World or New World?. As someone who knows not where to hang his hat I suspect the Aussie contingent on recognising such a mixed and humble pedigree will simply consign me to the dustbin of bastards of which there seems to be an overly large number in Australia. As Bob Dylan said "....pity the poor immigrant" who with his last ten pounds stumbled onto a VC10 and fetched up on these shores.
Talking about poets will there be a wee bit of ".....singing the praises" a la Shivas Irons at this three-course dinner on Friday night. Has anybody else been burning the midnight oil and penning fine doggerel for that evening?
Cheers Colin
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Colin
All I can say is - I hope you dont snore ? ;)
Scott - so have you come up with a plan re: the matches or is it still WIP ?
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Kevin, I finished the teams and pairings this morning. I will send it out this afternoon.
We ended up with Aus Mainland v Rest Of World, with you and I honorary ROWers due to your wife being a Pom and me having just returned from living there.
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Kevin, I finished the teams and pairings this morning. I will send it out this afternoon.
We ended up with Aus Mainland v Rest Of World, with you and I honorary ROWers due to your wife being a Pom and me having just returned from living there.
not convicts vs the rest then....
virtually 'forigners vs Ozzies' - Tasmanians are more tasmanian than Australian, aren't they?
James B
ps just sledging boys... :)
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Convicts vs the rest would have been lopsided by 12 to 25 (plus one of our NZers is a Yankee by birth), so Mainland Aus (11 NSW, 5 Vic, 2 SA and 1 WA) vs ROW (11 USA, 2 Tas, 3 NZ, 1 Scotland, 2 ersatz Poms) it is.
Pairings and rooming list will be in everyone's inboxes now. I hope never to do another manual pairing for 37 people over 5 rounds with the aim of ensuring maximum variety in playing partners for all!
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Scott,
Champion stuff. Well done and many thanks. I will buy you a wee dram, no a very large dram, if that is your penchant.
Cheers Col
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Kevin, I finished the teams and pairings this morning. I will send it out this afternoon.
We ended up with Aus Mainland v Rest Of World, with you and I honorary ROWers due to your wife being a Pom and me having just returned from living there.
Scott
Thanks for that - an honorary Pom hey ? Bring it on :) Well done on getting this all organised - look forward to seeing everyone on Thursday.
I hear Kyle is certainly getting out and about - how about the rest of the visitors to our shores - how are you finding our courses ?
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Played with Kyle yesterday at peninsula, today I believe he jumped a ship and left the country in search of better photographic light, or perhaps less mosquitos. Played with Tyler Ince in Adelaide, Mr Bennett and I strongly advised him against the idea of flying to Perth and driving back, he'll thanks us one day!
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Played with Kyle yesterday at peninsula, today I believe he jumped a ship and left the country in search of better photographic light, or perhaps less mosquitos.
Geez, Kyle's been in the country five minutes and he's already left Melbourne?
I hope they stop him at the border on his way back in. Only believers are allowed in Victoria.
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I kicked off the trip with a visit to Mark and Peninsula North today.
Loved every minute of it, a fantastic course with plenty of fun shots, and the company was exemplary.
Just collected Mayhugh and David Kelly from the airport and we're all keyed up for RM tomorrow.
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I kicked off the trip with a visit to Mark and Peninsula North today.
Loved every minute of it, a fantastic course with plenty of fun shots, and the company was exemplary.
Just collected Mayhugh and David Kelly from the airport and we're all keyed up for RM tomorrow.
Cheers, Scott.
It was good to finally meet you at last. I enjoyed the round immemsely.
It's always nice to see a Yankee down here sampling our tacos, and it's even better when the mosquito's and rain stay away, too.
Hopefully the weather behaves itself today.
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Anyone driving Mayhugh around should be prepared for sudden stops to allow him to take pictures of Tasmanian Devils, Wallabies or random signs.
Have a terrific event!
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I kicked off the trip with a visit to Mark and Peninsula North today.
Loved every minute of it, a fantastic course with plenty of fun shots, and the company was exemplary.
Just collected Mayhugh and David Kelly from the airport and we're all keyed up for RM tomorrow.
Cheers, Scott.
It was good to finally meet you at last. I enjoyed the round immemsely.
It's always nice to see a Yankee down here sampling our tacos, and it's even better when the mosquito's and rain stay away, too.
Hopefully the weather behaves itself today.
Australia has tacos?
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Brian - I've five days at RM in a couple of weeks time and if I can work out how to post pictures I will put some on the DG. Throw in NSW, Kingston Heath, Royal Wellington, Kinloch, Wairakei and "The Spiritual Home of New Zealand Golf" and there is an awesome trip in store.
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Mark
I played RMW on Monday and am glad to say that it played like the RM of old.
The new legend couch was superb and the greens were hard and fast. It's great to finally see the grand old lady back to it's best !!!
I'm sure you will enjoy it.
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Kevin - that is good news I've been unlucky at RM in the past, we are also playing the Presidents Cup composite course so that is extra special.
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Have fun guys, sorry I couldn't make it.
Weather forecast http://www.abc.net.au/northtas/weather/?forecast=bridport-7262&#weather_7day_forecast
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Brian
A great day out yesterday at Barnbougle Dunes and an even better one today at Lost Farm
Scores were tied up at 13.5 each overnight.
Richard Sattler and his course super - Phil gave us all an interesting chat behind the scenes as dinner as well.
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Looking forward to hearing the full report of the goings on down there.
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Looking forward to hearing the full report of the goings on down there.
Sorry, Ed, what goes on at the Boomerang stays at the boomerang.
Just in order to protect the identities of those concerned, you understand.
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Mark,
You can try to keep the lid on, but I have my ways of finding out what sort of debauchery you gents are up to. What are your impressions of Lost Farm?
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Looking forward to hearing the full report of the goings on down there.
Sorry, Ed, what goes on at the Boomerang stays at the boomerang.
Just in order to protect the identities of those concerned, you understand.
Identities or reputations?
Good luck with that!
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Ed,
I am sure you will have all the depraved details in no time, just as long as it didn't come from me.
It was nice to see David Kelly again, and good to meet the other traveling US GCA'ers, who were all excellent blokes. It was good fun.
I am not that big on Lost Farm. It's a nine hole course for mine. It has a a lot of width, and is an easier walk than the Dunes course, but I find it interesting that the difficult holes there are the longer ones like 5 and 8, whereas at Dunes, 7 and 12 are very difficult, 7 especially so downwind - a Doak trait?. The green contours seem more random, and perhaps not as usable as those across the cut.
It will be interesting to get the varying opinions.
Identities or reputations?
Good luck with that!
I can but try, Bill.
And yes, we have tacos here. According to Tyler Ince, he had a pretty good fish one in Melbourne one night.
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Mark,
Thanks for the thoughts. I look forward to hearing some of the other opinions. When you say 9 hole course, are you talking there are two distinct 9's, only one of which you like? Or are there only 9 good holes total? If it is the first instance what is lacking in the 9 you don't care for?
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When you say 9 hole course, are you talking there are two distinct 9's, only one of which you like? Or are there only 9 good holes total? If it is the first instance what is lacking in the 9 you don't care for?
Ed,
Both. The front nine is the best, the back nine not much chop. I don't know I would want to play the back nine there again, to be honest. If I couldn't play the front nine twice, I wouldn't play the back. 3,4,5,6 and 8 are the best holes, along with the first, to some degree. 13 A is a good par three, but you have already done the stunning short iron par three at four, so all it really does is add 15 minutes to the round.
14 is a stunning hole, but they need to lose twenty yards of the marram on the hill to the right - with a standard four club breeze straight into you on the tee, it is pretty intimidating. 18 is a nice view, but the green feels similar to the 8th.
The back nine is played over much lesser land and just seems too low profile. 15 is a drop shot par three of great beauty, but all you have to do is calculate the drop and hit the green. A miss right is an easy up and down. Compared to the 5th at Dunes, a similar length drop shot par three with a much more interesting split level green where you have to calculate bounce and roll and have much more interesting recovery shots.
13 plays through a canyon of sorts. It doglegs left around an exposed dune, along a flat fairway, then plays to a flat fairway extension green. I like fairway extension greens, but there is no doubt about where this is back in the fairway. Given the incredible skill of the construction crew, they could have done anything here and made it fit.
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Mark
As a 36 hole venue do you think the "easier" Lost Farm layout balances the "tougher" Dunes course ?
If you were a 27 marker what would be your 10 round split ? (i'd guess LF 7-3)
If I was a low marker I reckon it would be the opporsite.
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Ed,
There was a rumour that the event would return to Barnbougle/Lost Farm in 2 years. Start planning now.
I will fill you in on the details of this years event in a few weeks when we catch up in person, as the y may not be fit for print.
All I will say is that Scott did a great job organising, there was a great bunch of blokes there, and I am not sure why James Bennett had an alpaca in his room.
I sort of agree with Mark on Lost Farm however I am willing to give it plenty more plays to work out the playability aspects. the fairways were plenty wide but I am not sure how strategic they were. there didnt seem to be many "no go" zones around the greens, although they were all nicely contoured. Personally I think C&C overdo the low profile thing but that is just my opinion.
The course is a fine addition to Australian golf, easily in the top 1/2 dozen courses in the country. Any criticism of the course must be taken in the context that people will be comparing it to some of the best courses on the planet - Barnbougle, Royal Melbourne, Sand Hills, Pac Dunes etc.
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Mark
As a 36 hole venue do you think the "easier" Lost Farm layout balances the "tougher" Dunes course ?
If you were a 27 marker what would be your 10 round split ? (i'd guess LF 7-3)
If I was a low marker I reckon it would be the opporsite.
Richard,
Lost Farm is only easier in benign conditions. The fairways may be wide enough, but once you get a 3-4 club wind blowing, it exaggerates the sidespin a 27 marker - and lower - is going to put on it tremendously. I played with a 3 marker on Thursday afternoon in those conditions, and he lost 8 or 9 balls.
A higher handicapper would still probably expect to do well on the short fours and the par fives, but at Lost Farm, the fives are quite long and, on 1 and 8, difficult. 14 is very intimidating on the tee with a strong wind smashing into you. 6 and especially 17 are also quite long and difficult par threes with the prevailing wind. 15 is also long with the prevailing wind.
My split would always be 9-1, no matter my handicap level. I don't find Barnbougle Dunes to be that difficult, just as I didn't find NSW to be all that difficult and penal as well.
It is actually the shorter holes at BB Dunes that are more difficult than the longer ones, especially 7 downwind, and 12.