Magazine - $30,000 damage bill for G.C

By Editor in Golf on 2nd Jan 2010 21:35

A golf club in Ipswich region is facing a hefty $30,000 repair bill after vandals destroyed three greens some time on New Year’s Eve.

Karana Downs Country Club manager Anthony Caldow said his hopes for a trouble-free 2010 – after the club was robbed four times last year – were dashed when he arrived at work yesterday.  “When it was reported to me and I come down to have a look, I couldn’t believe it – they’ve brought their own shovels and absolutely ruined these greens,” Mr Caldow said.  “To me that says it’s a deliberate and malicious attack on our club, but I can’t think why anyone would want to do this.  “Greens require a special kind of grass which isn’t cheap – knowing how much it costs to turf one green, I’d estimate this will cost us $30,000 to repair the damage they’ve done.  “We were known to have the best greens in the Ipswich region so this is a real blow to us.”

Greens on the club’s 17th, 14th and 13th holes were damaged in the attack, which Karana Downs police are now investigating.  The cups from each hole were also ripped out and thrown over the course.

Mr Caldow said the club’s members had volunteered their time to come down to the club and help repair as much of the damage as possible.  He said he did not think the attack was linked to the community uproar over the sale of the club to developers Karana Waters last year.

Karana Waters submitted a proposal to Brisbane City Council in December to turn the club into a residential development, but the course will remain open until late 2011.  “I don’t think anyone would damage the course because of the development – the golf course is the reason why many people live around here,” he said. “It’s unfortunate that this has happened, and the greenkeeper will be in for a bit of a shock when he comes in on Monday, but we’re keen to move on and put this behind us.”

In the four break-and-enters at the golf course last year, the club lost more $20,000 in cash, as well as computer equipment, golf clubs and alcohol.

Police urge anyone with information to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Source & More: www.qt.com.au

Read more articles in Golf, by Editor or from January 2010.