TGT Issue 49 2020

Turf Grass Times Sports Turf Association (WA )Members Magazine ISSUE. 49 T-QUIP Mega Field Day at Optus Stadium. A fantastic educational and promotional day for the WA sports turf industry. Australian Turf Industry Associations Forum. Representatives from Australia’s Turf Industry Associations meet in Sydney Arena Managers Bus Tour. A highly enjoyable roving Q&A visit to three of Perth’s leading turf managers and so much more inside...

The Sports Turf Association (WA) Inc. is proud of the continued generosity and support from the following Sponsors. SPORTS TURF ASSOCIATION (WA) GOLD SPONSORS SPORTS TURF ASSOCIATION (WA) SILVER SPONSORS SPORTS TURF ASSOCIATION (WA) BRONZE SPONSORS

Contents Sports Turf Association (WA) Inc. PO Box 8492 1. From the President 5. What’s Happening at TAFE Perth BC, WA 6849 11. T-Quip Mega Field Day [email protected] 17. The Carbon Footprint of Turf www.sportsturfwa.asn.au 21. Australian Turf Industry Associations Forum 27. WA Turf Industry Awards 2019 PRESIDENT 31. STA(WA) Members BBQ Breakfast Tony Guy 33. Securing Gnangara Groundwater 39. STA(WA) Arena Managers Bus Tour Tel: (08) 9313 9378 45. Visiting a Turf Farm in Remote Paradise Fax: (08) 9310 4726 51. Tools that Optimise Sustainablity Mob: 0417 977 734 53. Mitigation of the Urban Heat Island Effect [email protected] 57. Turf WA 61. City of Canning Collaborates with MowMaster TREASURER 63. The March of the Fall Armyworm Greg Jackson 67. Presenting Quality Turf Surfaces to a Budget Mob: 0417 918 653 69. TGAWA Member Profile - Tony Demasi [email protected] 73. TGT Trading Post SECRETARY 77. STA(WA) Member Profile- Ian Clark Richard Gainsford Mob: 0487 880 001 [email protected] MEMBERSHIPS Chris Langsford Mob: 0428 100 104 [email protected] EDUCATION John Forrest Mob: 0457 766 552 [email protected] WA Turf Executive Officer Eva Ricci Tel/ Fax: (08) 9437 2180 Mob: 0422 120 990 [email protected] The “Turf Grass Times” is produced wholly inhouse by volunteer contributors for members of the Sports Turf Association (WA) Inc. The STA(WA) is a not-for-profit organisation representing any person with an interest in turf grass and the Sports Turf Industry in WA. The “Turf Grass Times” is also distributed amongst members of the Turf Growers Association of WA as the major supporter of the Executive Officer of Turf WA . TGT Production T A Turf Growers Association Senior Editor /Design & Production: Tony Guy - STA (WA) of Western Australia Inc. Mob: 0417 977 734 Email: [email protected] Communications & Photography: Eva Ricci - TurfWA Turf WA Mob: 0422 120 990 Email: [email protected] Front cover image: T-Quip Mega Field Day on Disclaimer Marlee Lawn at Optus Stadium precinct Burswood This newsletter is provided for information purposes only. The reader assumes entire risk as to the accuracy and for the use of any information photo courtesy Tony Guy. contained within. Readers are advised that the Turf Grass Times takes no responsibility whatsoever for the accuracy, or otherwise of any advertisements, descriptions, photographs, appearing in this issue or any time in the future.

From the hazardous and risks in our working Unfortunately for some in our industry President: and home lives, such as violence, there has been some considerable loss in drugs and plain old juvenile stupidity their income as work projects and capital Dear colleagues, but nothing really prepared us for the purchases were abruptly frozen in the As I write this many of us will hopefully reality that we never have been really face of the economic downturn. There be getting a clearer image of their path all that safe. The human condition is so have been forced reductions to working for the next few months or more. I will particularly fragile and vulnerable. We hours and days with many people taking do my best not to use such phrases are no more or less lucky or privileged home less pay per week. However, on as unprecedented and new normal. than any other living occupant on this average the effect of the change has The affect that this viral pandemic has world. I highly recommend reading created new challenges that have kept had around the world and the way we Leigh Sales’ (ABC 7:30 Report) book many of us just as busy if not more so. have responded will stamp 2020 in the ‘Any Ordinary Day’. The ruthless and disruptive effect on encyclopedias as a distinct milestone or our lives that this virus has unleashed bookmark in the recorded history of the This COVID -19 corona-virus is an has been alarming, but it is no surprise human race. assassin we have been unwittingly to witness the resilience displayed by so conscripted into aiding and abetting many within our community. its ability to harm us by using our very gregarious lifestyle against us. The Horror and Shame of Adaptability and resilience Silver linings Corona-virus COVID-19 Complacency has demonstrated There is almost always a silver lining on To begin with it feels a little strange repeatedly to be best way (worst for every tragedy, and it is heartening to see making comment on how the virus has us) way to enhance the virulence and our belief in each other strengthened. We affected the way we work and interact contagion of this virus exponentially. are listening and respecting the science in our small community in Western We have been forced to immediately more now and allowing knowledge and Australia when globally the affect has adopt strict quarantining and isolation experience guide our decision making. been so very, very deadly. At the moment tactics to bring this pandemic under the global death tally has just surpassed control. Hundreds of years’ worth of The resurgence in everyone taking respite 300,000 and I must admit that there old habits of welcome and congeniality from their lock down and isolation have been times when taking in the have needed to be relearnt overnight. experience by visiting and safely utilising reported personal stories of tragedy that And we did. the parks and gardens in their immediate have continued unabatedly has been neighbourhood has increased the value overwhelming at times. This is then We have adapted and have proven to and demand for quality green spaces. shortly followed by feelings of guilt for be resilient. We will not go gently into When the gadgets and hurley burley of any lessening of empathy as the numbers the night. Fortunately, our industry modern life are out of reach these natural become so large that it enters the realm has managed to maintain its general settings have proven to be a treasure and of science fiction. Shame on me for commercial integrity and keep a haven. We’ve known this for a fact for not fully registering the correct level of working. On a state level very early many years. apropos for something that is happening on Eva Ricci addressed in writing our far away. But it is very real, these are very concerns to a number of state ministers I have noticed in my small community real people of all differing ages, who a and NGO leaders that the shutdown of a greater level of concern about few weeks ago were relatively healthy, sports field and parks maintenance will everyone’s physical and mental health expecting to live, love, work and play have dire consequences for the industry throughout the crisis. Courtesy as well as and now, through no fault of their own, and society. This included the need for Consideration have been the antidote to are seemingly suffocating in their own continued commercial operation of the the stress created by the adjustment and beds. They unwittingly ‘dared’ to enjoy TGA turf farms. in return a grounded mindfulness seems a holiday on board a cruise ship, an to have settled in. I also recommend exciting reward, often a once in a lifetime Likewise, I assisted our national STA reading Hugh van Cuylenberg’s book luxury for many. In ‘normal’ acts of being office submit a similar letter to the ‘The Resilience Project: Finding a good citizen they ‘dared’ sit next to or federal government. Both petitions Happiness Through Gratitude, Empathy share a greeting of respect and trust with were received well and with respect to and Mindfulness’. a fellow human at work, on the street our industry. or in the confines of trains, planes and automobiles. So much of our modern history and advanced medical knowledge has taught us how to avoid the things that are 1 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49

There are many changes that have come be conducted via ZOOM. I am still Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 about due to this pandemic, many of hopeful that we may be able to salvage them were hard learned lessons, but a Cricket Curators Course later in the Recently, following a visit to the US, STA hopefully also with positive outcomes year as well as co-hosting the WA Turf Australia President, Chris Chapman and long lasting. Industry Awards in late October. Both was invited to be on the international of these events remain dependent upon committee of the Sports Turf Managers Association News government health advice. Association in the states and the two Fingers are crossed that by years’ end associations are now affiliated. This By now many of you should be aware we will have a better picture on how means that all STA members have access that at the last annual general meeting of next year’s event calendar will present to STMA information and events at the STA(WA) in August 2019, a motion itself. We anticipate that we will be doing member rates. Hopefully you will also was brought and passed that effectively everything we can to help “re-launch” start to receive quarterly eNewsletters changed the membership / sponsorship many of our business sponsors and from STA Australia. year from a Fiscal year (1July-31June) to friends in reconnecting members with the traditional Calendar year (1January their products and services. The idea Future of Turf Education in WA – 31December). Membership and of hosting a BBQ breakfast as soon as Sponsorship renewal invoices were sent we can is also something we hope can The WA Turf Industry’s relationship with out via email early in the year. If you have happen sooner than later. TAFE WA began many years ago. Many not received it or are having difficulty, of us consider the partnership basically please do not hesitate to contact us. STA Australia began when the late Lin Hambleton, Elected to committee at that meeting who we consider the father of turf was myself, Tony Guy as President, Greg Last October, management studies in western Australia Jackson as Treasurer, Rich Gainsford Greg and I flew reached out to a youngish Jim Clements as Secretary, Hayden Hamilton as to Melbourne to join him as a lecturer at Bentley TAFE Events coordinator, John Forrest as for a full day in the mid-eighties. Jim was proudly Education and Chris Langsford as of workshop our first graduate of the year for trade Memberships. Committee meetings are with fellow Sports Turf Association studies in 1982 and together Jim and Lin held monthly and also attending were representatives from every state and the formed the backbone of turf management Aaron Crofts, Adam Strachan and Eva ACT. The meeting was convened by STA teaching in WA. Since then a small family Ricci. Everyone’s input and energy has Australia’s new administration officer, of talented turf managers have left their been highly appreciated and invaluable, Mr Tony Fenton. Tony has taken on the green fields for the often harder job of especially as we have negotiated our way part time role to assist the STA regions being trainers and lecturers. People such through using Zoom video meetings. into coordinating our collective mission as Steve Dargie, Gary Holloway, Sam Unfortunately, the COVID-19 isolation and objectives effectively and efficiently Franco, John Forrest, Rob Williams, guidelines have effectively scuppered amongst the multitude of sports turf Wayne Miller, Jeff Austen and Simon just about all STA(WA) events for 2020. members throughout Australia. Wood. Thank you gentlemen, words The AGM in July may most likely also cannot express the WA Turf Industry’s appreciation and gratitude for your dedication, commitment and support. Turf Spraying Accuracy & performance. We achieve optimum health & growth of elite sporting surfaces with more efficient, targeted & safe processes including shrouded booms & GPS guided applications. With a daily capacity of 180Ha, we are leading the way in project management and spray operations. For more information on planning your site specific winter pesticide and spring wetting agent programme, contact our market leading team 08 9302 6795 | [email protected] 2

NTEWG and Skills Impact Turf Management qualification unit May we received the long-awaited news arrived (now named AHC31319), we that they agreed to extend the transition During John’s tenure at TAFE which were faced with the ongoing issue in period for AHC31316 until 20 October began almost 25 years ago, he started WA that quite a number of the units 2021. representing WA at the National Turf were not allotted sufficient teaching Education Working Group meetings. hours (nominal hours) for our western And another thing. These meetings were convened by the Australian lecturers to deliver the AGCSA and wider turf industry towards units effectively. This poor allocation There still remains a lot more work to coordinating the scope and technical within WA has been a concern for a be done, such as the need to re-establish issues involved with the training of turf considerable number of years. Last the part-time, night class study of management at the TAFE colleges and year the Turf Department at SM TAFE Certificate III, getting the Diploma level institutions of technology throughout were allocated only 545hours to teach and other skill sets up and running, Australia. Quite a number of years the same units that the eastern states improved resourcing and staffing for the ago this group began looking into TAFE’s receive an average of 900 hours. turf department, subsidy’s and distance how to improve the turf management Unfortunately, it seems that much of the accommodation assistance for regional curriculum into something more problem lies in how the ‘nominal hours’ students and the list goes on. professionally standardised nationwide are defined. Industry consider these units and proactively linked to the career of a as class time teaching hours, however Heat Management turf manager. This was a seemingly slow administration use nominal hours as a boil until a couple of years ago when resourcing calculation. When we received Inside you will find an article regarding Skills Impact, based in Melbourne began the new qualification, we were again a Heat mitigation research project. The a Federally initiated comprehensive only allocated on about 60% of what Heat Islands effect is not a new concept review of the Sports Turf Management was needed. John and I then submitted I know, but it is certainly now a reality qualification and training package being a reasoned petition to the Department which I believe will begin to influence offered to Australian apprentices and of Training and Industry Development how we look at Water Conservation and students. Throughout 2018 and 2019 we for each unit of competency (core and Green Space Management. The author, (John Forrest, Hugh Gardner and I) were elective subject) to have their hours Dr Mark Siebentritt visited Perth in late attending workshops and on-line forums increased comparable to the hours November last year as part of his project both here and in Melbourne. provided to our Victorian and New South release commitments. The take home Wales counterparts. Our petition was message from his lecture was that there New Sports Turf Management successful in part. We received additional is now definable data that links a lack Qualifications hours for most units however 4 remain of irrigated green space with a rise in needing their hours increased. Without temperatures within an urban area. That’s The upshot of all this is that the sports doubt, a much better result for our a shot across the bow to our governments turf training package in its entirety, lecturers and future cohorts of Sports because this increase in temperature is every study unit and skill set was pulled Turf Management students. The new directly linked to an increase in mortality apart and rewritten to better reflect the allocation for the 23 unit qualification rate amongst the elderly and frail. This industry requirements for Certificates is around 1200 hours now, depending particular study was conducted utilising 2, 3, 4 and Diploma levels in Australia. on which electives the students choose. drones and when possible piloted aircraft, Quite frankly a lot of the rewrite was to Please bear in mind that this increase both fitted with specialised thermal produce documents that not only were in course length will now involve an imaging equipment flying in grid patterns relevant to modern turf management increase in overall costs and fees. For across whole swaths of urban areas. Air practice, including reflecting the skills more information regarding enrollments temperatures were recorded with Kestrel needed for the employment position, but and costs please contact Shea McKay at weather stations at ground level and at also made sense. Some of the old training SM TAFE (08) 92298422 chest height (1.2m). These revealed that packages were written in such a way that on average the temperature of synthetic it would not have been possible for the Next steps turf was 10.94°C above average while lecturers to train and assess the students irrigated living turf was 4.89° C below within the average acceptable time-frame. Our next hurdle was that we (Industry) the average. This data will no doubt This rewrite has effectively restructured needed to seek permission on SM TAFE’s be used to drive Heat management the Certificates levels so that now Cert behalf to extend the teaching out period strategies of urban areas which in turn II Sports Turf Management now consists of the old AHC31316. According to the may refocus water conservation efforts of 8 units, an actual decrease of 3 from ‘rules’, students currently enrolled in the towards the preservation of irrigated turf the previous package, Cert III Sports old STM course will need to complete and green street landscaping rather than Turf Management now consists of 23 their studies and assessments for their the “managed reduction” of our green units, an increase of 7 units from the certificate by October 2020 or they will recreational space. There remains a lot of previous 16. The Certificate IV level was automatically be transitioned into the room for smart thinking to synchronise deemed to be better delivered as part of new Certificate level. This would mean our understanding of the mechanisms the Diploma and was therefore dropped more study and more costs would be of how green plants and irrigated turf from the package. These new packages needed before the student became dramatically cool the air temps and were finalized and sent off to the Federal certified. For this reason, we were ground temps and how we design our government last June before being required to submit a written request to living environment. Such that there released to the states later in 2019. the Training Accreditation Council to should be no net increase in urban heat extend the transition period for further in new developments. Nominal hours 12 months. Fortunately, on Monday 18 Irrigated turf may save us all yet. When the new version of Cert III Sports warm regards Tony Guy 3 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49

A GRAND COLLECTION...... With over 30 models to choose from to collect clippings 08 9478 7000 Bill Kilmurray 0418 488 434 www.tquip.com.au Rich Gainsford 0487 880 001 Greg Jackson 0417 918 653 0437 012 955 Nick Clayton 0418 919 230 Jean-Paul Groosman

What’s Happening at TAFE by Jeff Austen 5 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49

Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 The City and Country 1st year repair workshop. The apprentices found The South Metropolitan TAFE Turf sports turf apprentices were given operating the chariot style Spreader and Department thank all companies and the privileged opportunity to Corer especially challenging at first but their sales representatives for visiting review and operate some of the latest turf very quickly became proficient in their the students and sharing their time machinery that is on offer. What a day it operation which is a typical feature of and proficiency in the operation and was! Three of our local turf machinery Toro equipment. They also gave the use of the machines that they were distributors brought along a selection ride on machinery a good workout like demonstrating. Here at TAFE we of mowers and renovation equipment experienced turfies. sincerely appreciate their trust in our on the same day specifically for the turf We were particularly grateful when Luke apprentices with the expensive gear and apprentices. It ended up being quite an Harrison from MowMaster left a R22W more so their faith in the future of the unofficial Turf machinery Field Day on walk behind cylinder mower with the industry. campus. Turf Department to use for several weeks. Again, it was an ideal opportunity for MowMaster, T-Quip and Rosher the apprentices to put a face behind the visit the apprentices. name of a well-known and respected local business that manufactures a vast Ben Russell from Rosher arrived with range of specialised pedestrian sports 3 Baroness mowers. It is the 1st time turf maintenance equipment. The R22W that we at SM TAFE have seen these, is a small cylinder mower that is built to and it gave the apprentices a chance to the quality standard that is typical of all experience them up close and personal. MowMaster equipment. With many of Being a former turf apprentice himself, the first year apprentices being relatively Ben discussed all the pre-start checks, inexperienced, they certainly found operational start-ups and running tips of operating this type of equipment much easier and not so physically demanding the machines. Before long the very eager to use. We adjusted the cutting height apprentices got to sit in them and mow down to 4 mm to trim and stripe our some of the turf areas that we have at SM bowling and golf greens. My fellow TAFE. SM TAFE lecturers in the Horticulture Ben’s presentation emphasised some of Department also used this machine and the unique features of the Baroness range received positive feedback from their with their simplicity of design as well students. as strength and durability of parts and fittings requiring less down time with repairs and maintenance. Richard Gainsford from T-Quip supplied a 2 ride on mowers, a ride on sprayer/ fertiliser unit and a Corer for the students to operate. Richard was also an ex-turf apprentice and took the time to carefully extol all the unique features of their Toro Turf machinery range, and the T-Quip professional service and 6

Attending TAFE under COVID-19 provide via Q&A, and more lived Introducing Simon Wood to restrictions. experiences in the workplace that you all provide. Where possible these students the team at the SM TAFE Turf It’s certainly been a time and patience have been bought in as small groups for Department. consuming challenge working during the practicals, and basic paperwork, however COVID-19 restrictions. Especially how much of the theoretical assessments A little about myself; it has affected our meeting our training have been on-line. See photos of two I undertook my apprenticeship straight obligations for the apprentices and how apprentices working together on their out of high school at Mount Pleasant they also have adjusted to receiving a practical assignment. A term that has bowling club in 2002 and finished this in new way of training delivery. Wayne, been banded about is “Blended delivery”. 2006. I then worked at Point Walter golf Simon, and I were forced to modify the Fortunately, most of the apprentices are course with the City of Melville for five way we train the students. The most managing and are close to being where years where I worked my way to 2IC. difficult aspect was not being able to do they need to be in their study program. From there I came in and out of the the traditional method of face to face At SM TAFE, we will try our best to assist industry a number of times during which teaching. Wayne got us started using with any catchups where required and be time I worked as a turf horticulturalist at Zoom, which before long we found was available for discussions with individual Kings Park, senior greenkeeper at Point quite successful with the 3rd year turf students and their employers over the Walter golf course, and parks supervisor apprentice cohort. It provided all of coming weeks and months. at City of Cockburn. us the means to maintain momentum In saying that we now seem to be I completed my Certificate IV in Sports with this more mature learning group, entering a transition phase of face to Turf Management with John and especially that they are now so close to face learning, however social distancing Wayne in 2018 before commencing completing their apprenticeship. What is still to be observed. We have gloves my Certificate IV in Training and has been fantastic is that this group of and sterilising equipment supplied to Assessment later that year with the vision apprentices are well supported by their maintain hygiene standards and will of lecturing turf in the future. employers and without their dedication minimise the sharing of tools and I was fortunate enough to be given the to training it would have been more equipment. Life may be different but we opportunity to start lecturing at South challenging. are particularly grateful that everyone is Metropolitan TAFE at the start of healthy and safe. this year and am thoroughly enjoying A little bit different with the 1st and Cheers, working alongside Jeff and Wayne. 2nd year apprentices, as their training Jeff Regards, requires a substantial amount of Simon underpinning knowledge that we can 7 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49

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Verti-Mow Aeration To p d r e s s i n g Supply and To p m a k i n g Wetting & Sweep Lay Turf Agent Application Fertilising Loader Hire Overseeding Earthquaking Sand Oval Gold sponsor Supply Construction Supporting The STA for 10 years State Wide Turf Services is celebrating 10 years in business. From humble beginnings, State Wide Our can-do attitude sets us apart. With a fleet Turf Services has grown into the of 20 tractors of varying sizes and trucks, biggest dedicated turf renovation we’re more than equipped to carry out the business in Western Australia comprehensive services we offer. Our 30-strong – and we’re now in Victoria, too. team works hard to deliver great results in a friendly, timely fashion. Having been awarded We’ve built strong customer relationships with a Platinum Worksafe Certificate of Achievement local government, schools, race courses, golf – the highest possible – we make a priority of courses and other sporting clubs. safety, both for our workers and the general public. We’re serious about turf surface management. We’re proud to have built our business into In the face of rigorous demands on sports ovals one that represents quality, value and and other turfed areas, we work with the needs professionalism. Give Jerrod a call - he’s more of our clients to keep turf looking healthy and than happy to discuss your needs with you. performing as it should.

EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONALS DEDICATED & COMMITTED ON BUDGET ON TIME TRUE VALUE RELIABLE DEPENDABLE SERVICE JERROD (KIWI) HALL Mobile 0430 394 141 statewideturf.com.au Principal Turf Consultant Email [email protected] State Wide Turf Services

T-Quip Mega Field Day by Nick Clayton Commerical Manager, T-Quip

Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 hursday 26th September last year saw the single largest Tgathering of turf equipment ever assembled in Western Australia by the one company. T-Quip a proudly owned WA company of over 35 years has had a history of “going big” but even surpassed their own previous marks set not only in the product range represented, but also the volume of participants. Jean-Paul, Coby and Tom Groosman hundreds of kilometres round trip world renown companies have for to attend the day. the Australian market. There was Renown Dealer Principal Jean- JP and Nick welcomed the huge a number of comments over the Paul (JP ) Groosman gave turnout to the day and it was course of the day that it was an Commercial Manager Nick a moving experience have the unbelievable experience to have Clayton a generous budget and the company’s founders in attendance the chance to talk directly to the brief to “get 75 attendees and let’s in Coby and Tom Groosman. I people that actually designed and give them a day to remember.” wonder in their wildest dreams made the machines they were Nick engaged the services of when they emigrated from running. T-Quip’s marketing company in Holland with a couple of packed T-Quip’s principal supplier in Roobix and the first initiative they sea containers that they had Toro was represented en masse introduced was online registering pictured building such an iconic with a “sea of red” which had for the day. This actually proved empire in the WA Turf Industry. many of the crowd salivating to be too successful and Nick was It was also a huge honour to have and producing a “wish list” well ultimately embarrassed to have to the attendance of immediate beyond their next 5 years budgets. close registration at 193 quality members from the family empires Pity the poor finance departments customers! Nick proclaimed it was from two of T-Quip’s most when a number of these eager the biggest turnout he had seen treasured suppliers from Italy in turfies returned to work! Toro in his 37 years in the industry. Lorenzo Peruzzo from Peruzzo were also well represented with The other reason Nick attributes SRL and Alessio Ferrari from well known national identities in to the success of the registration Gianni Ferrari. This shows the Area Manager Scott Wallis and was the support from the level of commitment, respect and National Marketing Manager in industry bodies in particular the support that both of these two Elise Willemsen. Sports Turf Association and the Local Government Supervisors Greg Jackson presents the Peruzzo range Association who heavily promoted and endorsed the day. Apart from the sheer volume, it was fantastic to see such a cross section of the industry with a special mention to the country Shires whom many drove 12

Roland Abel presenting the Keckex equipment Also in attendance, was the team Attendees were broken up into from MTD Products who look four groups and each station was The day also served as the official after T-Quip’s range of Cub Cadet rotated through right up until Australian release of T-Quip’s machines. Their unique range of lunchtime. T-Quip once again latest product offering in the Zero Turn mowers that are fitted utilised the services of their innovative and topical range of with steering wheels rather than favourite caterer in Cicciobelli chemical free weed control from the traditional lap bars certainly Pizza’s who provided a sumptuous an amazing company from Austria received a lot of attention. feast of gourmet pizza’s which in Keckex. Participants we able Together Cub Cadet’s Andre van universally got the thumbs up to see an area that was treated Schalkwyk and Mick Holohan from the crowd. During lunch, only two days prior and the possess a vast array of knowledge some lucky punters took away exceptional kill rate achieved and and industry experience and were some great “door prizes” including all in an environmentally sensitive kept busy with enquiries all day. a commercial Cub Cadet catchment drain that flows directly Brushcutter. into the Swan River. Any use of Glyphosate in such an area would result in hefty penalties. Matt Norman demonstrating how the Andre van Schalkwyk from MTD Products Dave Harrison from MowMaster Keckex safely kills unwanted weeds. Mowmaster, another long-term The second half of the day Many local governments have partner and also proud Western involved a prestigious guided tour joined the platform to reduce and Australian company came to all access areas with the turf some even eliminate the use of armed to the hilt with their huge master in Area Manager – Tony Glyphosate and the Keckex range range of fine turf pedestrian Hemming. Such was the quality has eliminated the issues that mowers, scarification and edging of the tour and the speaker, very initially caused steam treatments equipment. Father and son Dave few people departed and stayed brought to the marketplace to and Luke Harrison also command on to compete a whole day of falter and they were productivity a massive amount of respect in the turf education. It was great to see and killing the roots rather than industry and their products are the delight and awe some of the just frying the surface. Keckex has always associated with premium regionals whom have previously made significant advances in both quality. not had such unlimited access of these areas. to a world class stadium and world class turf manager. I think 13 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 everyone was in agreement we were disappointed that we had to end Tony’s discussion and continue on with the tour.

Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 From there a lot of childhood Tomy Hemming at Optus Stadium such a huge range of equipment all dreams were realized as we in the one place at one time. wondered amongst the inner It really was a classic (almost) sanctums of both the West Coast finish to the day and huge kudos As we know JP loves a challenge, Eagles and the Fremantle Dockers. to Tony and also the team from we will finish with one for him; There was plenty of “friendly” Optus for organizing it all. “how are you gonna top that one banter thrown about and it was I said “almost” as a finish to the mate?” Knowing him, he will! very clear to where the allegiances day because then the T-Quip lay as we wandered through the had managed to secure our own Thanks again Team T-Quip for an Blue & Gold and Purple rooms. private bar (see below) in amongst amazing day ! Everyone had their photo taken the magnificent grandstands by their favourite locker number with a view across the oval. Once and heard their own roar of the again, many stayed on right until crowd as they imagine themselves the end and agreed it was one running out on to Optus. of the best formats of day they had experienced and were very appreciative to be able to view Team T-Quip with Scott Wallis from TORO Australia (second from right.) 14





The Carbon Footprint of Turf A study of turf growing sites in 2017-18 for Hort. Innovation project TU 16000- An Environmental Assessment of the Australian Turf Growing Industry. by Dr John Cumming

Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 The Carbon Footprint of Turf “The net carbon sequestration in turf varied from one growing site studied to another and from year to year for the same turf grower, Green turf relies on the sun to generate but all growers studied managed to sequester more carbon than they plant growth through photosynthesis. emitted from their activities.” Photosynthesis is a plant’s way of converting atmospheric carbon dioxide Carbon emissions emissions of Greenhouse gases such as into plant material, using the sun’s energy nitrous oxide from fertilisers. in the process. Turf farms are reasonably Carbon emissions are both direct from Modelling from this study has nitrous efficient at harvesting the sun’s energy the farm and indirect from the processes oxide emissions at 0.1 to 2.0 kg/Ha/y and sequestering carbon dioxide in the leading up to the delivery of materials using the Greenhouse factor of 298 harvested turf. and electricity at the farm. Indirect times CO2, the impact of nitrous oxide A study of turf growing sites in 2017- emissions include emissions from the is 0.005 to 0.10 kg CO2eq/m2 of turf, 18 for Hort. Innovation project TU power stations burning coal to generate insignificant compared to the other 16000- An Environmental Assessment of electricity, mining operations claiming factors. the Australian Turf Growing Industry, minerals and factories using energy to Ammonia emissions can be significantly demonstrated a strong net sequestration produce equipment and chemicals used higher for turf growers using urea and of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere on the farm. manures, but ammonia is not considered for all the participating turf growers. Direct emissions from farming a Greenhouse gas due to its short lived This had a median value of 1.63 ±0.54 operations come from burning fossil time in the atmosphere (about 24 hours). kg CO2eq/m2 of turf harvested with the fuels such as diesel and LPG, as well as stronger performers around 2 to 2.5 kg CO2eq/m2. There is a direct relationship between energy and fertiliser efficiency and carbon sequestration rates. One certain way of improving the carbon footprint of the product is by using less energy and fertiliser. Key findings: • Natural turf extracts carbon dioxide from the atmosphere • An average of 2.5 kg/CO2 is extracted per square meter of turf • On farm energy use put s CO2 back into the atmosphere • Fertiliser use also put s CO2 back into the atmosphere • Turf farmers are still about 1.6 kg CO2 per m2 ahead on balance 18

Most of this is indirect via the “Fertilisers are the second biggest contributor to turf farm manufacturing processes. Direct emissions from fertilisers account carbon emissions.” Individual growers were allocated a factor for less than 0.1 kg CO2eq/m2 of turf, relevant to their state (SA 0.49 to Vic 1.08 the indirect emissions are four times that. kg CO2eq/kWh of electricity). The general rule of thumb used is the kilos of N applied is multiplied by 5.6 to These factors have been used on data Overall the direct and indirect carbon give the kilos of CO2 eq. provided by the turf growers to yield the emissions took back 45% of the carbon Formulated chemical products are more indirect carbon emissions on the turf sequestered by the growth of turf on elaborately transformed and consume farms. average. greater amounts of energy in their manufacture. Lifecycle studies have The other major indirect carbon emission How to maximise sequestered indicated a factor of 20.7 be used to contributor was electricity, which has a carbon in turf. convert kilos of a formulated agricultural carbon load that varies from state to state chemical to kilos of CO2eq. depending on how they generate their Maximise growth and plant density as electricity. the amount of carbon in the plant is the amount of carbon sequestered from the atmosphere. It probably pays to have plenty of sunlight and a good dose of fertiliser to promote growth, but the key aspect is harvesting mature dense turf. Harvesting turf under ideal conditions. Reduction of turf waste to a minimum will increase yields and sequestered carbon. Wastes will break down and most of the sequestered carbon will be lost by bacterial decomposition. The practice of good turf farming is where a balance is struck between fertiliser use, plant growth and weed management. Minimising Greenhouse emissions on the farm. Efficient use of energy and all other farm inputs will reduce wastage and minimise the direct and indirect Greenhouse emissions. The first step in energy efficiency is measuring the current usage of electricity by pumps and diesel in tractors. Then farm management can set targets for improvement. Energy intensity of 30 turf growing sites studied. The variation of the bulk of turf growers is from 3 to 12 MJ/m2 of turf harvested. Most of the growers have a significant opportunity to reduce energy use, get the energy efficiency to a best practice level and improve the net amount of sequestered carbon in the turf product. For further information contact: Dr John Cumming, Infotech Research, on 0418 125 688 or [email protected] 19 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49

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Australian Turf Industry Associations Forum Parramatta, Sydney, NSW 4th December 2019 by Tony Guy

On Wednesday 4th December The group were warmly welcomed by Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 2019, members of the varied turf Mrs Jenny Zadro of Turf Australia, acting sectors, representing every state as chair and host of the 4 hour meeting. Australia – Sun, Soil, and Water have and territory around Australia convened Prior to the meeting each region was been largely taken for granted as being in Sydney for the inaugural Australian invited to submit their “State of Play” ‘always’ free and ‘always’ available. Due Turf Industry Associations Forum. report which focused on determining to climatic change and unstoppable The goal of the meeting was to the top 5 issues that they believed industrial and urban ‘progress’ this is collaborate information and discuss the affected their business to sustainably and no longer the case and the Australian issues faced by the industry, determining efficiently manage and maintain quality turf industry needs positive affirmation as a group if there were options available sports turf surfaces. From these the group from all three levels of government in and a willingness to work cooperatively hoped to evaluate and suggest a working establishing a prioritized value regarding on resolving some of the issues. process towards a coordinated successful its importance. In doing so, effectively securing enough quantity of these In attendance, flying and driving from all diminishing resources to produce quality states of Australia was: healthy turf surfaces for all, forever. • Ross Boyle - Chairperson Turf tackling of the issues. Water security. Australia (Qld) It was soon very clear through the • Jenny Zadro – Market Development morning discussions that most groups On a national level, every state and had very similar issues. A summary of territory related the challenges of Manager Turf Australia (NSW) the discussion points, in no order of managing turf surfaces during the • Tony Fenton - Administration priority, are: prolonged drought conditions. It needs be said that this discussion also included Officer STA Australia (Vic) The Value of managed turf surfaces coping with irregular incidences of • Trent Hobson and Adrian Onvlee in communal urban green space. severe rainfall downpours and hailstorms impacting many regions. Both the both representing STA Qld An agreed quantitative and qualitative undeniable evidence of climate change. • Chris Chapman – President STA value of managed living turf in our urban society is desperately needed. Making the most out of available NSW Since its introduction into the modern water and improving a very outdated • Sophie Devine - Administration & landscape, living turf has been utilised distribution system that does not cater for multiple purposes and multiple for the efficient distribution of recycled Office Manager STA NSW applications in our daily lives - wastewater whether it be towards • Tony Guy - President STA (WA) residential, industrial, commercial, multiple aquifer recharging sites, • Mark Doyle – Vice President STA recreational, sporting, agricultural and sourcing multiple inputs from micro environmental. Whether a living turf recycling plants or even initiatives such as VIC species is used for landscaped aesthetics, on site reuse of wastewater with modern • Gerry Charlton - President STA SA recreational pursuits such as the third pipe installations. • Matthew Plunkett – Industry many active ball sports including golf, frisbee and kite flying as well being an Australia was regarded a dry continent Development Officer representing agricultural crop and an environmental prior to European settlement and Turf NSW benefit such as soil stabilisation or after almost 250 years of a continually • Eva Ricci – Executive Officer Turf nutrient run-off filtration, living turf has increasing population and dramatically WA representing both Turf Growers an indelibly valued place in our society. reduced annual rainfall, almost every Assoc WA and STA(WA) However, is its value high enough state now maintains major seawater • Barry Proctor – President GCSA to survive the coming desperate desalination plants to meet its water VIC competition for resources? supply needs. This infrastructure, • Simon Cooper - NSW Bowling While improvements in the management however, is barely meeting the urban Greenkeepers Association. and maintenance of living turf have domestic hydration needs now and been widely accepted and promoted, most major cities have recognised that Apologies were received and noted from; the freely available ‘God’ given projections for population growth in • Racecourse Managers Association requirements for growing turf in 2050 far exceeds the planned provision of • Victorian Bowling Greenkeepers enough water for those populations. This Association • Queensland Bowling Greenkeepers Association • South Australian Golf Course Superintendents • Turf Producers Queensland • Turf Producers Victoria • AGCSA/Australian Sports Turf Managers Association. 22

dilemma poses the real threat that green Education and Employment. educated. The link between education space maintenance and turf irrigation and career development and the will unfortunately be diminished in the This was a serious concern for all groups associated wage structure are intrinsically face of severe restrictions. with many aspects of this area discussed. linked. Discussions were held on the outcome Structured, certified short courses (3- and lessons learnt from managing Having poorly structured promotional 6mth), and bespoke skill set training past droughts and water conservation pathways and career development within must also be developed and delivered so initiatives and how best to consult and the industry was seen to be a common that accomplishments are certified in a negotiate with local water authorities. problem with staff retention and playing cumulative manner that enhances and Turf is always the first to be impacted by a negative impact upon the recruitment promotes a professional workforce within restrictions and this story was repeated of competent and resourceful students Australia. with a similar detrimental impact on and apprentices coming through the Our greatest resource are our workers all areas of the industry. The predicted system. Combined with this was the and our best asset is our intelligence, behaviour of regulatory bodies in making problem of consistent quality vocational both emotionally and intellectually. short term and reactionary decisions that training with the TAFE colleges around may most likely be to our irrevocable Australia. Each state reported of mixed Synthetic grass. detriment in the long term was seen as bag of problems including reduced needed to be avoided as a priority. hours for teaching, reduced funding For many regions the prevalence of for resources and reduced incentive for synthetic grass in residential areas and Urban Heat Management. uptake of new industry trainers. Almost sports fields is considered an insidious all state governments determine the problem. There is either a lack of Refocus urban and metropolitan water management of vocational education in knowledge and or a capitalist campaign conservation strategies towards the their own state. This has led to the major of denial and misinformation regarding objective of managing the increasing problem of some state governments the environmental health dangers directly incidences of heat island effect within holding the future training needs of related to plastic grass surfaces as well our cities and urban areas. Irrigated members within the turf industry as an honest accounting of the resources green turf has been proven to be the hostage to the whims of bureaucracy. As required to maintain it. Whenever most effective cooling element within our a result, there is serious discrepancy in sufficient water and sunlight is available, urban environment. the level of training received for the same plastic grass surfaces should always Essentially an important element of certified or diploma level of Sports Turf be seen as an alternative to hardscape that refocus is an understanding of the Management study within Australia. A surfaces such as paving or timber decking need to reassign water resources to the student studying Cert III STM in Victoria and not living turf. The economic impact continued and progressive application will receive almost twice the number of on the turf growing industry is clearly onto managed turf surfaces. instructional hours as a student studying significant. Furthermore, the installation An investment in healthy green turf in Western Australia. The mechanisms of plastic grass surfaces under the direct surfaces needs to be viewed as an and bureaucratic formula used by each impact of the sun should be simply investment into the continued resilience state to determine how it calculates avoided for health reasons alone. and survival of our urban society’s fees and delivery budgets is shamefully Synthetic turf and hard landscaping wellbeing. inconsistent and tragically vulnerable. are also undoubtedly linked to an It needs to be noted that yellow or poorly increase heat island effect in our urban growing turf provides little cooling as For many years most of the training landscapes. compared to adequately irrigated turf within the turf industry has been the The failure to properly promote the grass. For too long, persons not trained result of numerous short to medium benefits of living green turf is an in the management of turf are dictating term courses and informal instructional unfortunate home goal success towards that poorly growing turf is acceptable and demonstrations. While this form of more plastic grass installations. Improved is of more value than green healthy turf. training has incredible merit, it has not promotion is a tangible action that can be fostered an attitude within the general enabled sooner than later. population that the turf industry is THE NEW X2™ IS A POWERFUL OR IT’S A SMART DIAL CONTROLLER WI-FI CONTROLLER X2 CONTROLLER: X2 CONTROLLER WITH WAND FOR WI-FI: • Up to 14 stations • 2\" backlit display • All X2 features • 5' cord and plug • Simple programming like X-Core® • Hydrawise® management with the WAND module MANAGE IRRIGATION YOUR WAY X2 lets you program with a dial or upgrade to Hydrawise cloud management with the plug-in WAND module. Hydrawise provides additional water savings, controller alerts, and remote access. Now that's smart watering! RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION | Built on Innovation® Learn more. Visit hunterindustries.com 23 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49

Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 Pest and Disease Research. Collaboration and Respect. As the threat of environmental change and severe weather events take their toll The group shared some Bio-security Throughout the open table conversations upon the urban environment, the attitude issues that are continuing to be causing at the forum, collaboration was a key of maintaining living green space is held problems around the country. This issue with some specific areas addressed. up for review and found unfocused. A included the main problem pests Limited time and resources and a focus positive affirmation of turf and the role of Ground Pearl, Sting Nematode, on individual association operations it plays within our society will enhance Couch Smut and Buffalo yellowing. creates quite a challenge for equitable all sectors of production, maintenance, Unfortunately, there has been a dramatic collaborating. For example, it was education and environment. decrease in active research projects apparent that there is a lot of information Almost all issues determining the fate even though for the past 10 years there available on past research outcomes but of our industry hinge around how has been an estimated $3,000,000.00 little knowledge of where to find it and well or poorly living turf is valued and dollars levied from the Australian a lack of distribution throughout the appreciated. We are only two generations Turf Production sector in an initiative turf community. Knowledge need not be away from having communities with to specifically promote and perform owned and doled out by any one group very limited free access to living turf for valid turf research. Instead the bodies or sector. The Australian Turf Industry whatever pursuit. It is not difficult to responsible for managing these funds is a vibrant and diversified family of imagine a time when a walk in the park have allowed bureaucracy to derail the groups each operating separately in their will be via an entry fee and booking form. core promise. Discussion was made on own different ways however each aiming Overall the outcome of the Forum was how best to regain confidence between towards the same goal of perfecting positive and worthwhile. The success the maintenance and production and improving the maintenance and of the group will be through continued sectors with the levy administrators management of sports turf surfaces. It communication and a commitment to towards competent, uncompromisable was agreed that because of this diversity achieve outcomes. and unbiased evaluations and research a single entity is not always needed to act Many thanks and sincere appreciation to findings for all with the industry. as a surrogate representative of all sectors Jenny Zadro and the Turf Australia team but rather a collaborative collective built for organising and hosting the day. An interesting and quite valid point on democratic respect for each sector can raised by one member was a referenced succeed instead. call for the whole Australian Turf Industry to take responsibility for It was also noted that there is a lack of this issue of invasive pests amongst data on the size of the industry regarding our sports fields. We have ourselves the actual numbers and status of largely to blame by not nearly being employment within the industry. proactive enough much earlier with quarantine and remediation actions. We got ourselves into this mess and must therefore work more collaboratively with regulatory bodies in developing policy and penalties for careless action that threatens the welfare and condition of the environment. We agreed that most turf associations have standards and ethics guidelines regarding their member’s behaviour toward each other but are we being good ambassadors of the industry advocating for a better, safer and resilient environment for all users? Australian Turf Industry Associations Forum 4 December 2019 participants 24

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Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 News Release Bayer CropScience Pty Ltd ABN 87 000 226 022 Level 1, 8 Redfern Road Hawthorn East Vic 3123 Australia Tel. +61 3 9248 6888 crop.bayer.com.au Webinar recording now available for Indemnify® Turf Nematicide from Bayer April 23, 2020 Indemnify Turf Nematicide from Bayer is a next generation, easy-to-use nematicide that controls key plant parasitic nematodes in turf and improves root growth and turf health. We are pleased to advise that the APVMA has approved some additions to the Indemnify® Turf Nematicide label, including a new rate of application for use in high nematode pressure situations on intensively managed sports turf. Download the new Indemnify product label at: https://www.environmentalscience.bayer.com.au/turf-management/products/ indemnify. To support the introduction of these label changes, Jyri Kaapro from Bayer hosted a webinar to explain the new label changes, with a specific focus on new directions for use in situations where there is high nematode pressure. You can view the webinar recording at : https://www.bayeramplifyturf.com.au/Turf/Webinar/ To fully understand these label changes and ensure you are aware of the use situations where the new rate is recommended; how to use Indemnify according to these new label use directions; and to see trial results from using Indemnify at this new rate, under high nematode pressure, please view our webinar recording. If you are not an Amplify Turf member, please register to view. Membership of the Amplify Turf program is free. www. bayeramplifyturf.com.au James Royal, Market Manager, Turf & Vegetation Management says “The launch of Indemnify in June 2019 was met with significant interest and anticipation from the turf industry. Through continued investment in research trials in some of the most challenging environments with high sting nematode pressure, we were able to demonstrate, with these new use rates of Indemnify, a level of performance that we believe will deliver game- changing root growth and turf health on sports turf surfaces with high nematode pressure.” For Further Information: James Royal Market Manager (Turf/VM) (m) 0408 903 252 About Bayer in Australia Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the Life Science fields of healthcare and agriculture. Its products and services are designed to benefit people and improve their quality of life. It has operated in Australia since 1925 and has a long term commitment to the health of Australians. Locally, Bayer currently employs almost 900 people across the country and is dedicated to servicing the needs of rural Australia and the local community. Bayer is deeply committed to research and development and has a strong tradition of innovation. The company’s focus on people, partnerships and innovation underpins all aspects of its operations, consistent with its mission, “Bayer: Science For A Better Life.” crop.bayer.com.au Forward-Looking Statements This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Bayer management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Bayer’s public reports which are available on the Bayer website at www.bayer.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments. 26

WA TURF INDUSTRY AWARDS 2019 Class of 2019 Rob Gough, Nick Kinley, Tom Tristam and Ric Eusebio T A Turf Growers Association Tony Hemming of Western Australia Inc. Terry Sellick and Lachlan Maher Craig Burleigh 27 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49

The annual WA Turf Industry Thanks also to Rob Gough from Hunter Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 Awards evening was held on Industries who with Nick Kinley, Tom Tuesday 29th October 2019 at Tristam and Ric Eusebio shared their SPONSORS Hartfield Golf Course Country Club recent adventure in the US. Nick, Tom Baileys Fertilisers in Forrestfield. It was a lovely evening and Ric were winners of the Hunter Bayer CropScience for our industry, a great night out for Industries inaugural Emerging Leaders in Globe Australia everybody after a long day at work, Irrigation award. Greenacres Turf Group networking and socialising with friends Hunter Industries and colleagues, enjoying great food, good This WA Turf Industries Awards company, excellent speakers and lots of event is proudly hosted annually by Lawn Doctor laughter. Let’s not forget also that the the Sports Turf Association (WA), Living Turf main reason we were all gathered was to the Turf Growers Association WA celebrate and congratulate the graduating and the Golf Course Superintendents Nuturf Sports Turf Management apprentices and Rainbird Australia students of 2019. Association of WA. The WA Turf Congratulations to all of this year’s Industry once again presenting a T-Quip certificate recipients and to the Award progressive, vibrant and resilient Turf Care WA winners on the evening. Western Irrigation industry. The Best Student in Certificate of Trade The Best Student Technical & Further The Lecturer’s Choice Award was Studies in Turf Management Was Education was awarded to Matt Wolfe awarded to Mitchell Clay from the awarded to Rhys Jones from Kings Park from the City of Albany. This is the Mandurah Country Club. This award Botanical Gardens. This was the “Bayer “CH Bailey & Sons Perpetual Shield” is sponsored by Lawn Doctor Turf Award”, sponsored by Bayer Crop Science sponsored by Baileys Fertilisers. This Farms and was presented by Dixie Joy and presented by Craig Burleigh – Bayer shield has been proudly presented to representing Lawn Doctor Turf Farms. Crop Science. graduating students since 1982 and was presented by Arlin Simons of Baileys CLASS OF 2019 in attendance: Fertilisers Mitchell Clay | Mandurah Country Club Guest Speakers Jenny Zadro with Darren Kirkwood Lewis Barrow | Lakelands Country Club Michael Burke | The West Australian Golf Club Special thanks to Tony Hemming, Arena Connor-Reef Butlion | Bunbury Golf Club Manager, at Optus Stadium who was the Cameron Douglas | Turf Care WA guest speaker presenting on the night. Lachlan Maher | Lawn Doctor Tony spoke expansively about his career Taylor O’Donnell | City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and was quite animate and descriptive Ethan Prince | Programmed Property Services in his accounts of his time living and Matt Wolfe | City of Albany- ATC Worksmart working in the middle east. Although Rhys Jones | Botanical Gardens & Parks not always politically correct, his down Authority to earth talk was certainly inspiring and wonderfully entertaining. Tony’s honest delivery was certainly appreciated by the graduates and dinner patrons alike. It was such an information filled sharing. 28

Jumbo Roll Technology Greenacres Turf Group can produce, harvest, supply and install turf successfully within the requirements of the contract no matter how large or small.

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STA(WA) Members BBQ Breakfast by Tony Guy

In the early morning on Wednesday DWER Message Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 4 February members and friends of the STA(WA) gathered once again Our other guests at the brekky who are groundwater extraction for bore water for our annual BBQ breakfast. This event also becoming quite familiar with sports license holders in the Gnangara mound appears to be a favourite amongst many turf members was Trudy Evans and Dan area. This has now been reduced from members, often seeing the same people Ferguson from the Department of Water 7500KL per hectare per year to 6250KL attend. Quite understandable too because and Environmental Regulation. You may per hectare per year. This is a significant it’s a simply a brilliantly relaxing informal remember that Trudy was a keynote decrease in an already lean supply target. place to start the day with colleagues. speaker at last year’s WA Turf Seminar To achieve quality turf surfaces, turf The recipe of an early morning meeting and this morning gave her colleague managers are required to perform even in the idyllic surrounds of Kings Park Dan the opportunity to speak on the further hydro-zoning of their sites, ie, overlooking the Perth CBD, chatting and topic of water resource management shutting down more areas to maintain laughing with a group of familiar faces within Western Australia. Dan raised a sufficient irrigation to the focused sports around a BBQ appears to be in no hurry number of very important points in his and amenity turf areas. to be changed. So if you have not yet presentation that although some of us It seems incredible that of all the enjoyed the experience, my fellow BBQ have heard repeatedly for some time now, achievements that our human breakfasters and I can only say, ‘Where the prolonged high heat days and dryness constructions has accomplished over the bloody hell are ya!, ‘ you don’t know of this 2019/2020 summer has made the last 100 years of our history, from what you’re missing’. the message even more relevant and monumental pyramids and towering stressed how vital it is that we share the buildings, sprawling cities and vast Special Guests responsibility towards safeguarding this terraformed agricultural production resource for all. The staff at DWER have facilities, it is the irreparable impact that This year we were very fortunate to host been monitoring the changes in irrigation we have made on the massive leviathan a few special guests to our gathering. Mrs demands within and around the Perth sized underground aquifers that is hard Jenny Zadro, Business and Marketing metropolitan area and the continued for us Western Australians to grasp. Manager for Turf Australia was over from decline in available water sources In some areas throughout the Perth Sydney and we were very grateful that since the 1970’s. The steady increase in metropolitan area the water table has she could start her day with us. Jenny is population and industry demand over dropped many meters in depth. This certainly no stranger to the Australian those 50 years has now forced their has had a domino effect upon wetlands Turf Industry or even our members in hand in deciding who can draw water that may regrettably be irreversible. Western Australia. For some years Jenny from the aquifers and how much. It is The average groundwater levels of the competently spent many hours in her essential that they remain on course with gnangara mound can be seen at https:// former roles as Events Coordinator / managing this task and their current gnangara.dwer.wa.gov.au/status. Office Manager for both STA NSW and project is to reign in the draw-down of For many years working with Perth’s STA Australia. the Gnangara aquifer located below the sandy soils under a warm Mediterranean northern corridor of the city. In 2016 this climate and blessed with a seemingly Adrian Pitsikas with Jenny Zadro water table dropped to its lowest level inexhaustible and easily accessed supply The breakfast also gave us an opportunity yet to be recorded. Since then there has of underground water was regarded to once again welcome and introduce been a serious shift in gear towards the as some of the best turf growing Sam Dempster from SACOA to some management of this resource and changes environments in Australia. The challenge more members. Sam and Julian Matthews were put in place in regard to who and now is for us to cease taking these recently joined the STA(WA) as our how much water could be extracted. elements for granted and find ways newest gold level sponsor and it was great One of the extraction management to produce the same exceptional turf to have him deliver an short summary initiatives created involved a reduction surfaces with less. about how SACOA have successfully in the average allocation amount for Fortunately with help from the WA grown and developed their business Department of Water and Environmental within the WA Agriculture community Regulation, we are not alone in tackling for the past 23 years and are now very this task. excited to introduce their range of Thank you to all members and sponsors specialty wetting agents into the turf who attended and a very warm welcome industry. to all members to attend our next BBQ, we missed you and look forward to catching up with you soon. Sam Dempster from SACOA Dan Ferguson from DWER addresses the members 32

Securing Gnangara groundwater and adapting to climate change Over the years, south-west Western Australia has become hotter and drier due to climate change. It’s common knowledge that this means less inflow to dams, but it also means less recharge to groundwater. Being located on one of Australia’s best groundwater resources has allowed Perth to become a modern, vibrant and green city that provides a lifestyle we all enjoy. Now, with reduced rainfall and significant use, the groundwater system has shifted out of balance and our once healthy system is under strain. The Gnangara groundwater system is a basin of water-holding sands and gravels interspersed with clays. It underlies Perth between the hills and the coast and the area from the Swan River to Gingin Brook. We abstract this water and use it for parks, ovals, gardens, agriculture and drinking water. It also supports the health of our natural environment. Our community, local governments and the Water Corporation have taken steps to respond to a drying climate by being more efficient and seeking alternative supplies. However, more is needed if we are to rebalance the system as a whole. The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation as the state government responsible for managing the state’s water resources is now working with water users to prepare the next Gnangara groundwater allocation plan. By working together and rethinking how we interact with water, we can secure our groundwater in a drying climate to help create a liveable, sustainable, productive and resilient Perth for the long term. We can achieve this by reducing groundwater use, replenishing (or ‘recharging’) the aquifers and introducing other sources such as recycled water. 33 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49

Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 Rebalancing the system means we can continue to have groundwater for communities, indusrty and the environment in a drying climate. Restoring the balance: Gnangara groundwater Gnangara plan area map 34

Our most precious resource Stretching over 2200 square The system is made of many Some is used for Perth’s scheme kilometres under the Swan layers of sand, sediment and supply which also sources water coastal plain, the Gnangara clay. Pores between the sand from dams, desalinisation and system is Perth’s lowest cost and hold water, which mostly comes recycling. The deeper Leederville largest source of good quality from winter rainfall making and Yarragadee aquifers are water. It is a crucial component its way down through the soil mostly used for scheme water of Perth’s drinking water supply to recharge the aquifers. The supply. (Integrated Water Supply system contains three main Scheme, operated by the Water aquifers. The Jandakot groundwater Corporation). system, south of the Swan River, Groundwater is a shared is a similar but smaller system The Gnangara system resource. The shallow Superficial that is also used by local water provides almost half of aquifer, known as the Gnangara users and for scheme water all the water used in the Mound, is mostly used by local supply. Perth metropolitan area governments, schools, industry, farmers and households that take each year. It supplies water from bores. water for agriculture, parks, ovals and gardens, and water for Perth’s scheme supply - distributed by the Water Corporation. Gnangara groundwater also supports environmental features such as lakes, wetlands and deep rooted vegetation. In the Gnangara system, deeper water is up to 35 000 years old and the geological structure is much older (up to 175 million years old). How is Gnangara groundwater used? Gnangara groundwater supports households, businesses, parks and gardens, through about 2600 water licences to take groundwater and 70 000 domestic bores. Perth’s scheme water Domestic garden bores Gnangara groundwater provides at least 110 We estimate 70 000 individual households billion litres or 110 gigalitres (GL) a year for take about 36 GL a year through domestic Perth’s scheme water supplied by the Water bores to irrigate gardens and for use by Corporation (enough water to meet the livestock (exempt from water licensing). needs of over 800 000 people). Horticulture and viticulture Pine plantations Horticulturalists and farmers take more than Pine plantations intercept rainfall and reduce 60 GL of groundwater a year to irrigate or prevent recharge to groundwater. locally grown vegetables and fruit. Public open space Gnangara groundwater is Perth’s lowest cost water source and the economic benefits Local councils, schools and sporting clubs have been estimated at a total net present take about 45 GL a year to irrigate parks, value of$6.7 billion1, which is equivalent to sports ovals and other public open spaces. about $400 million a year. Commercial purposes Local businesses and other commercial industries take over 10 GL a year to irrigate grounds or to use in production of goods and services, such as construction. 35 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49

Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 How much water is used from the Gnangara groundwater system? In 2016–17, about 287 GL was allocated from the Gnangara system – enough water to fill Optus Stadium 287 times or 114 800 Olympic swimming pools. Over 40 per cent of this went into the Water Corporation’s Integrated Water Supply Scheme, and about 45 per cent was used for local parks and grounds, horticulture and businesses. About 13 per cent was taken by householders for gardens using domestic bores. What else does Gnangara groundwater support? Without groundwater we wouldn’t have the lakes, wetlands, green parks, bush and trees that make Perth such an enjoyable place to live. Protects water quality Helps create our sense of place Lakes, wetlands, vegetation and cave Leaving enough water in the ground helps systems that depend on groundwater help reduce impacts between water users. It support rare species, create our ‘sense of also protects water quality by preventing place’, link closely with cultural values and saltwater from moving into the aquifer from make our communities cooler and more the sea and river, and by not exposing acid- attractive places in which to live. forming soils. Many people have made significant Supports lakes and wetlands investments so they can live near and enjoy wetlands, bushland and trees. The Our natural lakes and iconic wetlands on the presence of wetlands adds to home values Gnangara Mound depend on groundwater to by about $4 billion across Per th, and native survive. vegetation on the Gnangara Mound is valued at $100 million1. Supports vegetation 1 Marsden Jacob Associates 2012, Assessing Some of the bushland and large trees in our the value of groundwater, Waterlines report, communities and parks tap into groundwater National Water Commission, Canberra to survive our hot, dry summers. Provides storage capacity The storage capacity of aquifers is utilised through managed aquifer recharge to store water for later use and this can boost water levels. 36

A system out of balance Rainfall, streamflow and The rapid reduction in A system out of balance also recharge to groundwater have rainfall and recharge has puts water quality at risk in some been declining across south- been faster than reductions locations. Enough groundwater west Western Australia since to groundwater use and has needs to flow out to the river the 1970’s. Most of our rain shifted the groundwater and coast to prevent saltwater falls in winter and this is when system out of balance. intrusion into aquifers. Saline groundwater is recharged, water has already moved inland so when there is less winter High groundwater use and lower rain there is less recharge to rainfall have resulted in declining in the Superficial aquifer in some groundwater. groundwater levels and drying of places. wetlands and vegetation. When we developed the 2009 If we act together to rebalance Gnangara groundwater allocation In 2016–17 water levels at 16 out the system, we can adjust to plan, average annual rainfall was of 30 representative wetland changes in rainfall, increase water 729 mm (Perth Airport rainfall and vegetation sites were lower security and reduce adverse site 1975–2008). Since then than the criteria levels set by the impacts on water users and the we’ve had two of the driest years Minister for the Environment to environment. on record: 483 mm in 2010 and protect the groundwater system 578 mm in 2015. Between now and dependent ecosystems. and 2030, we expect an average of between 650 mm and 700 mm with dry years occurring more often. 2006 2015 Rebalancing the groundwater system would help recover wetlands that have dried up because of declining groundwater levels, such as Loch McNess, near Yanchep. Weed If weed control is your priority this winter then look no out. further than Bayer. Use Spearhead – the industry’s leading 37 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 selective herbicide for outstanding three-way control of broadleaf weeds in turf. And for a herbicide with an alternative mode of action, offering control of broadleaf weeds and also key problem weeds such as Guildford grass and excellent safety on Kikuyu turf, then Destiny is for you. Both have a broad spectrum of activity and are proven performers over many years of successful use – helping you weed out this winter. // Spearhead® // Destiny® Technical Enquiries: 1800 804 479 es.bayer.com.au

Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 What can we do to secure our groundwater future? To maintain groundwater as a viable resource for Our goal is… ongoing use and other public and environmental benefits, we need to stabilise groundwater levels To rebalance the and enable some key areas to recover. Gnangara groundwater system by 2030 to secure our There are many ways to do this. To help achieve lowest cost and most accessible a better balance, some local governments and water source for Perth and businesses are already investing in water-efficient technology, investigating managed aquifer to support a healthy recharge and applying water-sensitive urban environment. design. New urban developments can also be an opportunity to promote alternative, local water supply solutions that are fit-for purpose, especially for public open space. All water users will need to consider options like these and use water more efficiently to adjust to reduced groundwater availability. Strategies to rebalance Gnangara groundwater in a drying climate by 2030 Sustainable Water Efficiency Alternative sources Groundwater and innovation • Reduce reliance on • Reduce groundwater • Improve water-use groundwater by using fit- abstraction. efficiency to reduce water for-purpose alternatives. demand. • Increase recharge through • Increase groundwater planned land-use changes. • Enhance urban design replenishment and to reduce demand and managed aquifer • Use science and research increase recharge. recharge in the best to find the best solutions locations. for each location. As a result, water levels have Sustainable groundwater started to stabilise in some areas of the Gnangara Mound. Groundwater will continue to Groundwater abstraction for The Department of Water and be an important part of Perth’s scheme supply – which was Environmental Regulation is water supplies because it is our higher as an interim response now working with both the lowest cost and most accessible to low inflow to dams – was Water Corporation and self- water source. reduced when the Southern supply water users to plan future Reduced abstraction is part of Seawater Desalination Plant changes, including reductions the solution if we are to adjust to began production in 2013. The to abstraction, by 2030. The less rainfall by 2030. Water Corporation has also been approach may vary locally In some locations, even with taking less from environmentally depending on how much the initiatives such as increased sensitive areas and moving area is out of balance and what is efficiency, reducing water abstraction deeper to the practical and achievable. licence entitlements is one of a confined parts of the Leederville number of measures that will be and Yarragadee aquifers. considered. We can achieve this by working together Share information, work together and form partnerships to build capacity and find water solutions. 38

The STA(WA) Arena Managers Bus Tour by Tony Guy

The organisation for what became for the new generation to present Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 the Arena Managers Bus Tour themselves as candidates. The carrot on began almost 12 months prior that career progression stick are the role Optus Stadium to the event actually taking place. models that these senior industry leaders During committee level discussions present to the turf industry community. It On Friday the 7th February the day of regarding future events, a review of past is vital that we provide opportunities for the Arena Managers Bus Tour began well. events revealed that site visits were a the next tier down turf personnel to meet The morning was clear and warm on common “like” amongst the members and witness the scope and complexity the surrounds of Optus Stadium. Once and the reasons for that were varied involved in operating at that senior level. take away coffees from our friend Allan’s but underlying it was the opportunity From these musings came the Caffeine Machine were downed we were for everyone to gain inspiration and development of the humble site visit able to make our way down the venue appreciation of the challenges and to a more indepth Q&A experience concourse with Arena Manager, Mr Tony successes experienced by their fellows in with some of our most respected turf Hemming. Entry onto the playing field the turf management industry. Likewise, managers of our hallowed sports turf at Optus gives you a feeling unlike any the host of the event receives just arenas at Optus Stadium, the WACA other stadium ground that I have visited. acknowledgement and congratulations and Lathlain Oval. For this visit we were Optus has a magnificence and a genuine for their efforts. It’s a win-win situation, very careful to cultivate the experience to ‘Coliseum’ ambience that many other a feel good event that has just the right be one of meeting the manager and not arena’s lack. amount of educational input on a the venue. These sites are also home to respectfully sober social gathering. some very talented and well paid sports From the boundary area we listened The turf industry in Australia is a vibrant celebrities, but it was the chap with the to Tony generously share, explain and and extensive network of talented, dirty knees that we wanted to see and breakdown a great deal of the challenges committed and hardworking teams of hear from. and trials that he experiences on a daily individuals and businesses. However, and event to event basis when managing in many respects we are also a relatively the turf surface at the stadium. Points small industry especially when it comes raised included the meticulous care to career progression and personnel in which Tony monitors and manages appointments around the country. That the thatch buildup in the turf profile, is the number and names of people especially during the Rye grass transition holding senior positions in sports turf period. management in Australia is not that It is in the area of data collection that large and also reasonably well known. separates Tony from other managers. Recruitment for these positions is quite Daily he and the HG Sports Turf team often the result of lateral movement at Optus perform a multitude of tests rather than upward progression. This and measurements around the ground. is understandable as ‘performance’ Penetrometer readings, infiltration rates, and ‘talent’ is usually demonstrated by temperatures throughout the shaded experience. areas and endless tissue and soil samples. But it is not always the case thank goodness and the industry is repeatedly 40 willing to give opportunities for next generations to shine. An important part of that though begins with an incentive Outside at the empty cricket pitch trays

It was fascinating to hear Tony speak their extra care was the management of required tasks when and where they are so casually of the careful and persistent what Tony coined “UFTs” – Unnecessary needed every time. However it is his way he measured the extent of the shade Foot Traffic. During major events the emotional intelligence and empathy as arc tracking across the ground every team pay careful attention to corralling a leader to the staff, his commitment hour throughout an entire 4 seasons. the event or sport staff into specific and compassion in his own job as a This ever expanding and contracting bunted / fenced corridors as they make role model, mentoring, guiding and shadow from the northern stands made their way back and forth from the field protecting the grounds staff in their managing the climatic variances around or staged area. Protecting as much turf careers and from the pressures and the 2 hectare ground a complex full from unnecessary compaction and unwarranted criticisms that inevitably time task. In fact, the very first piece of wear as possible. Another 1% was in the leak down from the media and armchair equipment on display when we filed out presentation of the field for an important punters that paint Tony Hemming as an of the concourse was 4 trailers of portable match. When the cricket field is mown exceptionally gifted and invaluable asset grow lights parked across the lawn. Tony pattern striped, the curators are careful to the WA Turf Industry. explained that not only do they satisfy to transport the wicket roller to the pitch Tony Hemming with Brad Morrison the plant’s needs from light starvation, via the same mower pattern so as not to but they also make the surface soil profile show a lazy snail like rolled path crossing an average of 4 degrees warmer. the paddock. One percenters. Arena Manager After a short walk across the playing Listening to Tony Hemming, it quickly field and an inspection of the practice became clear that he was a very wicket area and the holding trays for experienced and highly intelligent the transportable cricket pitches, we turf manager, employing science and were honoured to be welcomed into the applying innovation and experimentation grounds team inner sanctum, where we to achieve consistent results in the were privileged to hear the truly tasty face of ever increasing demands and treats of Tony’s management strategies expectations. However listening to his and tips. Listing those things that Tony staff it soon became also very clear that referred to as the one percenters. Those managing the Arena was not simply seemingly small items that make the all a matter of knowing how to grow a difference. They were an example of the verdant healthy sward of turf. Nor complexity in which the team at Optus is it also by being responsible to the Stadium conduct forward planning and venue management, ensuring event exercise careful time management to be commitments are satisfied, that the as efficient as possible. An example of equipment and machinery perform the 41 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49

Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 The WACA Following a brief morning tea everybody clambered onto the bus for a quick trip across the bridge into East Perth and our next site visit at the West Australian Cricket Association’s hallowed cricket ground. Here we met Nathan Saville and Brett Nathan Saville greets members at the WACA Sipthorpe, contracted by the WACA through Green Options to maintain sward purity have lingered since then and After a good wander around the centre the WACA grounds, its centre pitch it is suspected that a few differing strains wicket block and the neighbouring and practices wickets as well as those of couch can be found throughout the 2 practice net area, never long enough for we saw on the other side of the river at hectare playing field. Nevertheless, the many of our cricket-tragics to get their Optus Stadium. The WACA team have surface is in immaculate condition and fix with standing on their beloved sacred been responsible for the new Stadium’s to the untrained eye is still regarded as ground, it was all too soon time to board drop in pitches since their construction the benchmark for excellence in lawn back on the bus for the ride to our next began across the road at Gloucester presentation. Brett explained that a mix venue and lunch. Park in 2015. They then oversaw their of couch grass types also exists within transport to the Stadium in 2017 and the wicket table, which he admits has Mineral Resources Park have been managing their preparation been interesting to manage as each type and maintenance ever since. has responded somewhat differently We now headed southeast over the The WACA ground itself is well over to applications of fertiliser and wetting historic Causeway bridge and into the 100 years old, having its first cricket agents. Town of Victoria Park on our way to the games played in the late 1890’s. Over the From discussions with Brett and nearby suburb of Lathlain. We arrived years a number of stands, club rooms, Nathan it was apparent that while turf at the refurbished Lathlain Oval, home scoreboards and changerooms have management of the WACA ground ground of the Perth Football Club – aka gone up and then in my time a major may be considered ‘old school’ as when the ‘Mighty Demons’ (WAFL). Now realignment, installation of a complex compared to Tony’s practice at the named Mineral Resources Park the subsoil drainage system (sealing and Stadium, it is however no less vigilant rebuilt ground houses the administrative separating the playing surface from and attentive to detail. When asked and training headquarters of the West ever-present rising groundwaters) and what type of soil moisture monitoring Coast Eagles Football Club (AFL). The resurfacing/replanting of the ground took equipment was used on the ground, Brett upgraded facility features two ovals, place in the late 1980’s. This was when the raised and wiggled his index finger. He one the size of the Melbourne Cricket domed field was planted with Greenlees then added that they have been carefully Ground and the other the size of Perth’s park couch. Unfortunately issues of managing the moisture levels by adopting Optus Stadium, a running track, indoor a wetting agent application program to training field, a gymnasium, swimming both the outfield and wickets. and recovery pools, elite medical and Brett Sipthorpe discusses wicket maintenance function facilities. The facility also houses the West Coast Eagles Football Club museum, public café, administrative offices and the Wirrpanda Foundation. Following a hearty lunch cooked to perfection by the well-practiced BBQ skills of the Nuturf team, we made our way across the second oval to meet with Turf Manager Luke Hoglin. Luke is also employed by Green Options. Unfortunately, we could not walk on the adjacent main oval sitting off the new clubrooms and grandstand, however we could see that it was in as ideal condition as the second field where we were. The health and quality of the wintergreen couch presentation on this oval was absolutely superb. At first noting how much taller Luke and the 42

team managed this turf as compared to largest turf supplier, with approximately Aaron Crofts with Luke Hoglin the other stadium surfaces, everyone 100 hectares of numerous species under One solution, Peter told us was that he was quick to comment on how players production during their peak operation. recruited the help from one of the park’s must love the cushioned surface. After Greenacres have supplied the turf during boundary neighbours, who for the cost seeing how well the surface looked it construction and maintenance of Perth’s of a carton would contact Peter as soon was interesting to hear Luke comment many stadiums and high-profile playing as possible if the sprinklers had not been fields. seen to have been on. Josh and Aaron from Nuturf Peter was directly involved in the on the difficulties that they have with Greenacres supply and installation of Peter Pitsikas with Digby Moullin, Eagles GM uniform irrigation distribution and the the turf during construction of these Infrastructure / Projects. time restrictions placed by management redeveloped ovals and relayed to us some Once again everyone was suitably on maintenance operations due to such of the trials the team faced regarding impressed by the fact that at all three a busy player training commitment. This the regular and consistent supply of venues, the major element in successfully oval also services the training / game irrigation water to the newly planted presenting top notch surfaces was the needs for 5 teams and is open for public grass. Peter was very entertaining in his compassion, dedication and commitment access. This information was then put description of how the establishment from each turf management team. The into perspective by guest speaker Peter period took place over the business challenges they face may often contain Pitsikas, co-director of Greenacres Turf shutdown Christmas / New Year holiday a high stress element of responsibility Group. Greenacres is Western Australia’s week. A time that many of us know that to get it right, but at the heart of it, turf if something could go wrong – it will management challenges are similar go wrong. Peter’s experience with this across the board. It is how we address project was not contrary to that rule. He and tackle the problems that makes all said that the irrigation bore pumps failed the difference. during that time when minimal servicing To close off the day we reboarded the bus was available, and it was an anxious for the return journey to the car parks several weeks getting sufficient irrigation outside Optus Stadium, where members during that summer as the pumps either made their way home or continued continued tripping out unexpectantly. inside to the Camfield Tavern to enjoy some complimentary STA(WA) drinks. Thank you to all involved for making the day a wonderful experience. 43 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49

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Visiting a Turf Farm in Remote Paradise By Eva Ricci



In October, I had the great pleasure the turf around Broome, causing terrible developed successfully in such harsh of spending three very hot days in damage to couch grasses in public open circumstance was fascinating. Survival the Broome region with Derren spaces. Unlike other regular spider mites of the fittest for sure. I brought a sprig of Greenhill, owner operator of Greenhills this critter is big. It is visible with the one mutation came back to Perth where Turf Farm in Broome. There was no naked eye and has decimated much of it is growing very successfully. I am denying that I was visiting one of the the public utilized turf in the Broome interested to see how it manages in the most unique climatic areas in the world. and Derby regions. It seems to be near sandy soils here in the South West of the It definitely contained the most unique on impossible to control, and has become state. golf course in the country and one of a significant issue in the region, costing On the 16th October, Derren and I Western Australia’s most unique turf local government tens of thousands drove up to Derby to visit possibly farms. It was an industry visit that of dollars trying to eradicate this pest, the most unique golf course in the without a doubt will remain a highlight mostly to no avail. country. In the early 2000’s the Water for me for the rest of my years. While inspecting the turf throughout Corporation approached the Derby Did I mention it was hot! Really hot, and the public spaces environment within community with an offer to sell them dusty and the flies? They were incredible! Broome and Derby, we came across four effluent wastewater to irrigate a golf It was however, for me the work trip different mutations of couch grasses. course, allowing for healthy fully turfed of a lifetime, nothing short of terrific, Some with long bamboo like nodes, fairways, greens and tees and a much inspirational, educational and heart- growing in 50° degree heat in sun-baked needed asset to the town. Over a period warming all at once. The people in these pindan clay pans. Others with multiple of time however, the negotiations over remote areas are particularly special. fine leaf nodes, tightly grouped together water pricing kept stalling due to a lack True-blue Aussies, readily extending the in the Derby Golf Course greens. The of community funding. Eventually the arm of friendship and generosity, freely fact that these turf grass mutations had Water Corporation resolved to offer the sharing knowledge and always eager to wastewater for free. The Corporation’s really listen and believe it or not learn answer, based on its success at Broome something new. Straight shooters who don’t mince words nor have much time GC (where it has a similar arrangement for the petulance and small mindedness since 1998), was the irrigation of a of some in today’s society. I met some new-look 18 hole golf course through a great characters, dedicated contributors state of the art reticulation system and and volunteers in their community, a small, purpose-built tropical wetland authentic, genuine, and all round really to safeguard a migratory bird sanctuary. good blokes. I bloody loved every minute The Derby community up took the offer of this experience. and a volunteer Golf Course committee I was fortunate enough to spend a was formed. The total project involved morning at the private estate of a well- the development of a new storage pond at known WA business identity, discussing the treatment plant, a new pump station biosecurity and other turf issues with the and filtration system and a high tech Grounds Manager and Derren. It was an chlorination system. Additionally, more amazing property. than a kilometre of new pipe was laid, a Derren committed three full days of tank was built at the golf course together his time during my stay, affording me with a small pump station to distribute experiences and insights I did not the wastewater through the new anticipate would be so profound. I was reticulation system, to the golf course. introduced to a pest called the False Spider Mite which is devastating some of 47 Turf Grass Times - Issue 49 False spider mite visible to the naked eye