Over two years ago, the Proserpine Golf Club was granted $145,000 from the federal government to construct an irrigation circuit, keeping the green perfect and lush all year round for locals and visitors alike.
The grant, gifted through the now abolished Building Better Regions Fund was designed to fund regional infrastructure, projects, and community development activities.
Proserpine Golf Course was granted $145,000 for the new irrigation system and was able to match the amount dollar for dollar, making the total investment almost $300,000 for the works.
“This is great for local golfers, local tourism, and the local economy,” said Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox.
The new system keeps the green lush through winter, when previously it would often dry out and become dusty, ruining the top soil for the summer season.
The golf course now meets open standards, meaning Proserpine could host the North Queensland Open, attracting players from across the state, as well as domestically across Australia.
“Irrigated fairways have been the most significant improvement made to Proserpine Gold Course in the time of my membership,” said Roger Vandenberg, PGA Golf Professional, who spoke at the official opening.
The new system allows more comprehensive opportunities for lessons, more allowance for use of the green in winter, and more consistent competitions for the club.
The official opening of the new irrigation system happened on Monday, June 5, with Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, Mayor Julie Hall, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, and Rick Hamilton, CEO of Tourism Whitsunday, in attendance, along with the Proserpine Golf Club board and team.
Andrew Willcox MP, Roger Vandenberg, Mayor Julie Hall, Phil Batty, Amanda Camm MP, Rod Wecker, Ann Gardel, Rick Hamilton, John Grosskreutz and Peter Lewis. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge
