Event Information & Player Guidelines
 



Dear Players,
 

We are thrilled to have you join us for the upcoming event, and we want to ensure everyone has a fantastic experience. Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with the following key details:

 

1. Tee Times and Player Briefing:

Tee Times and Groupings: Within 36-48 hours of the event, you will receive an email containing your assigned tee time and groupings. Ensure you check this information to know when you'll be teeing off and who your fellow players are.
 

Player Briefing: We value every participant's experience, and to ensure a smoothly run event, a players breif video will be sent out the night before the event. It's essential that all players watch the short video, as we'll cover important details to ensure a seamless and enjoyable event for everyone. 

 

2. TGC Dress Code:

We operate and enforce our own dress code during competition play, regardless of what course we visit. Please ensure you follow these guidelines as refusing to do so may result in expulsion from the event and premises.

 

On the Course:

  • Shirts: Please ensure that your shirts are tucked in during play. This not only maintains a neat appearance but also aligns with the golf course's dress code standards.
  • Belts: Wearing belts is a requirement while on the course. It adds to the overall polished look and ensures you're adhering to golf etiquette.
  • Socks: Black socks may only be worn with black shoes.
     

Off the Course:

  • Hats: To maintain a formal atmosphere, kindly refrain from wearing hats when inside the clubhouse or any designated indoor formal areas.
  • Shoe Etiquette: Before entering the clubhouse, make use of the conveniently placed floor-mounted shoe brushes when possible. This helps in keeping the clubhouse clean and ensures everyone can enjoy a pristine indoor environment.

 

 

3. Photo Consent:

Privacy: By participating in the event, you grant consent for the use of event photos for social media and marketing purposes. Rest assured, personal information beyond first and last names will not be shared. Your privacy is our priority.

 

4. Handicapping Rules:

We are focused on protecting not just our members, but the integrity of our events and the game of golf itself. In line with this commitment, we have established handicap rules designed to ensure fairness and maintain the competitive spirit of our tournaments. Specifically, these rules address the allocation of handicap allowances based on the number of rounds recorded on Golf Australia (GA) handicaps.
 

  1. Individuals with Less Than 5 Rounds Recorded on GA: If a player has less than 5 rounds recorded on their Golf Australia (GA) handicap, only 50% of their official GA handicap is used in calculating their daily and course handicap, up to a maximum of 18. If a players handicap is showing as "U" or "Unallocated" on GA, then the maximum allowance will be awarded (18). For ambrose events, this means their handicap contribution to the team's overall handicap is reduced.
     

  2. Individuals with Less Than 10 Rounds Recorded on GA: For players with less than 10 rounds recorded on their GA handicap, a slightly higher percentage of their official GA handicap is used in calculating their daily and course handicap. Specifically, 70% of their official GA handicap is utilized. For ambrose events, this allows for a more significant contribution to the team's handicap compared to those with less experience recorded in the system.
     

  3. More Than 10 Rounds Recorded on GA: Once a player has recorded more than 10 rounds on their GA handicap, we allow the full allowance of their official GA handicap to be used in the calculation of their daily & course handicap. This indicates that in ambrose play, players with more experience, as reflected in their recorded rounds, are given the full weight of their handicap contribution in team play.
     

  4. Individuals Yet To Have Any Scores Recorded (or less than 3): If a players handicap is showing as "U" or "Unallocated" on GA, then the maximum allowance will be awarded (18). For ambrose events, this means their handicap contribution to the team's overall handicap is reduced.The player will be allocated 50% of an 18.0 handicap, resulting in a handicap of 9.0.

 

These rules are implemented to ensure fairness and competitiveness in both individual and team events, considering the varying levels of experience and recorded rounds among participants. By adjusting the handicap calculation based on the number of recorded rounds, the aim is to create a balanced playing field where all participants have an equal opportunity to independantly compete and, in ambrose events, contribute effectively.

 

 

5. Scoring Methods & Mobile App:

TWO BALL or FOUR BALL AMBROSE - STROKE

The 2-Ball Ambrose Stroke Format is a popular variation of the Ambrose format, commonly played in golf tournaments. In this format, teams of two players compete against each other. Here's how it works:
 

  1. Team Composition: Each team consists of two or four players depending on the format outlined for the day.

  2. Starting the Game: Like traditional stroke play, each player plays their ball from the tee until they hole out on each hole.

  3. Choosing the Best Shot: After players on a team have played their tee shots, they select the best shot (the one that landed closest to the hole or in the best position) and mark that spot.

  4. Shots: From the spot of the best shot, all players from each team take turns hitting shots and repeat the process until the ball is holed out.

  5. Scoring: The team's score for each hole is the total number of strokes taken to hole out, including any handicap strokes that may be applied.

  6. Handicap: Handicap strokes are applied based on the players' handicaps. In the Ambrose format, the total team handicap is calculated by adding the handicaps of both players and then dividing by 4 (or by calculating 25% of total combined handicap) to determine the number of strokes each team receives on each hole.

  7. Handicap Rounding: Handicaps and strokes are adjusted to the nearest hundredth (two decimal places), which helps avoid ties or the need for a countback to determine a winner.

  8. Winning the Game: The team with the lowest total score at the end of the round (18 holes) is the winner.


This format is popular because it allows players of different skill levels to compete together in a fun and social environment. It also encourages teamwork, as players strategize together to select the best shots and optimize their scores.

 

 

INDIVIDUAL STABLEFORD 

 

In Individual Stableford, each player competes independently, aiming to accumulate the highest total points throughout the round.

 

  1. Scoring: Points are awarded based on the player's score on each hole relative to a fixed standard, typically par.
  2. Points: Higher points are awarded for better-than-par scores (e.g., birdies or eagles), while lower points are awarded for worse-than-par scores (e.g., bogeys or double bogeys).
  3. Wipe or "X": In Stableford scoring, there's a concept called "wiping" a hole. If a player scores net double bogey or worse on a hole, they "wipe" the hole (score 0 points and mark an "X" on the scorecard) and a awarded zero points for that hole.
  4. Winning The Game: The player's final score is the sum of the points earned on each hole. The player with the most amount of points is determined the winner. 36 points and above is considered a good score.

 

It's a format that rewards consistency and strategic play, as players aim to maximize their points while minimizing mistakes.

 

 

INDIVIDUAL NETT STROKE

 

Individual Nett Stroke is a golf scoring system where each player's final score is determined by their net score relative to par for each hole.
 

  1. Scoring: The net score is calculated by subtracting the player's handicap from their gross score on each hole.
  2. Handicapping: The player's handicap represents their average score over par on a course and is used to adjust their gross score to a net score.
  3. Example: For example, if a player scores a gross score of 85 on a course with a par of 72 and has a handicap of 10, their net score for the round would be 75 (85 - 10).
  4. Winning The Game: The player with the lowest net score at the end of the round is the winner.

 

Individual Nett Stroke is a fair and inclusive scoring system that allows players of different skill levels to compete on an equal footing, as it accounts for each player's handicap when determining the final score.

 

 

MOBILE SCORING SYSTEM

 

  • GOLF GENIUS App: To streamline the scoring process, we'll be utilizing the GOLF GENIUS app. It's imperative to familiarize yourself with the app before the event to ensure a smooth and efficient recording of your scores. The app simplifies the process, making it easy for you to focus on your game while ensuring accurate and timely scorekeeping.

 

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD GOLF GENIUS MOBILE APP

 

6. Tees to Play Off:

Men - Blue Tees: Male participants are designated to play off the white alternate tees. These tees are strategically placed to provide an appropriate level of challenge, catering to the skills and strengths of our male players. It ensures a fair and enjoyable experience for all participants.
 

Women - Red Tees: Female participants will be playing off the red tees. Specifically designed to suit the playing styles of our female golfers, the red tees offer an optimal course layout that allows for a balanced and competitive round.

 

7. Pace of Play:

Maintain Consistent Movement: To guarantee an enjoyable and seamless round for all participants, it is crucial to keep pace with the group in front of you. Consistent movement throughout the course ensures that every golfer has the opportunity to play at an optimal rhythm.
 

Enhance Enjoyment for All: Keeping up with the group ahead not only maintains the flow of play but also enhances the overall enjoyment of the round. It allows everyone to focus on their game without unnecessary delays, contributing to a positive and efficient golfing experience.

 

8. Carts:

Certain events may offer the option to hire motorized carts. In cases where carts are not provided, we usually reserve a limited number for members, who may choose to purchase them as an add-on. If you require a cart for an event, please notify us via email at admin@thegolfcollective.com.au, and our team will coordinate its availability for you, provided the club has carts on hand. Payments for motorized carts are generally made directly to the Pro Shop, unless specified otherwise.

9. Pro Pin Competition:

Player-Funded Nearest to Pin: Engage in our exciting Pro Pin competition! This Player-funded event challenges you to showcase your precision on a selected hole. The goal is to hit your ball closest to the pin, demonstrating your accuracy and skill.
 

$5 Entry Per Player: To join the competition, there's a $5 entry fee per player of which TGC will hold as the trustee. This nominal fee adds an extra layer of excitement to the game and contributes to the prize pool.
 

Winner Takes All: The thrill of the Pro Pin competition lies in its simplicity — the player whose ball lands closest to the pin takes home the entire prize pool. It adds a competitive edge to your round and creates a fun atmosphere on the designated hole.

 

10. Novelty Holes:

App Notification for Novelty Holes: Throughout the course, the app will notify you when you approach a novelty hole. These unique holes are designed to add an element of fun and creativity to your round.
 

Provisional Shots Excluded: It's important to note that provisional shots, if taken on a novelty hole, will not count toward your overall score. This allows you to enjoy the novelty hole without any impact on the competitive aspect of your game.

 


11. Golf Course Care:

Maintain the integrity of the course by actively participating in its care and upkeep. This includes:
 

  • Raking Bunkers:
    • Ensure that bunkers are left in pristine condition by raking and smoothing the sand after use. This not only enhances the aesthetics of the course but also contributes to fair play for subsequent golfers.
  • Repairing Divots:
    • Take responsibility for any divots created during your play by promptly replacing displaced turf. This small gesture plays a significant role in preserving the course's turf quality and providing a consistent playing surface for all.
  • Adhering to Additional Guidelines:
    • Respect any specific guidelines provided by the course management for overall course care. This may include practices such as avoiding specific areas, using designated pathways, or following any other instructions aimed at maintaining the course's health and beauty.

 

 

12. Leaderboard Updates:

Suspenseful Pause Through 15 Holes: To heighten the excitement and maintain an element of suspense, leaderboard updates will be temporarily paused after the completion of the 15th hole. This intentional break adds anticipation and allows the tension to build as the round progresses.
 

Strategic Timing for Added Thrill: The deliberate decision to pause updates is aimed at creating a more dramatic finish to the event. It ensures that the final holes are filled with suspense and keeps everyone on their toes, eagerly awaiting the leaderboard reveal at the conclusion of the 15th hole.

 

13. Rules & Penalties:

a) No Gimmes, Hole Every Putt: In the spirit of fair play and accuracy, please note that no gimmes are allowed during this round. Every putt must be holed to ensure consistent adherence to the rules and maintain a level playing field.
 

b) Local Rules Inquiry: Familiarize yourself with the specific local rules of the golf course we're playing. Information on any unique regulations or considerations will enhance your understanding of the course and contribute to a fair and enjoyable round. Local rule information can be found on notice boards outside the pro shop or on the back of a course scorecard.
 

c) Three-Minute Limit for Lost Balls: In the event of a lost ball, a maximum of three minutes is allocated for searching. After this time, the ball is considered lost, even if subsequently found. This rule aims to uphold the pace of play and prevent unnecessary delays.
 

d) Consult Lowest Handicapper for Rules Clarifications: When in doubt about any rules or decisions on the course, it is recommended to consult with the lowest handicapper in your group. This ensures consistent and accurate application of the rules, contributing to a fair and harmonious round for all participants.


e) Provisional Ball and Lost Ball Penalty: If a player believes their ball may be lost or out of bounds, they may play a provisional ball immediately after their initial shot.

  •   The provisional ball serves as a backup in case the original ball cannot be found.
  •   If the original ball is found and playable, the provisional ball is disregarded with no penalty.
  •   However, if the original ball is lost or out of bounds, the player must proceed with the provisional ball under penalty of one stroke and distance.

 

f) Out of Bounds Penalty: If a player's ball comes to rest out of bounds, the player must add one penalty stroke and proceed to play their next shot from a designated point determined by the local rules. (ie. Drop zone or from position as original.)
 

g) Hazards Penalty and Playing Out of Hazards: If a player's ball comes to rest in a hazard (such as a water hazard or bunker), the player may play the ball as it lies or proceed under penalty of one stroke as outlined by the rules. However, it's important to note that players are allowed to play out of hazards without penalty if they choose to do so, but they must play the ball as it lies without grounding their club.

 

h) GUR (Ground Under Repair) Free Drop: If a player's ball comes to rest in an area marked as Ground Under Repair (GUR), the player is entitled to a free drop without penalty. The player must determine the nearest point of relief from the GUR and drop the ball within one club length of that point, not nearer the hole.

 

These rules help ensure fair play and provide guidelines for handling various situations encountered on the golf course, allowing players to navigate challenges while maintaining the integrity of the game.

 

14. Ties:

Determined by Golf Australia Countback Rules: In the event of a tie, we will utilize the Golf Australia countback rules to determine the winner. This method ensures a fair and systematic approach to breaking ties and declaring a victor.

 

15. Post-Match Presentation:

Timing for Recognition: The post-match presentation is scheduled to commence precisely 15 minutes after the last group concludes their round. This intentional timing allows us to gather all participants for a collective acknowledgment of achievements and celebration of the day's golfing endeavours.
 

Celebrating Success Together: Whether you're a contender for the top spot or simply enjoyed a great day on the course, the post-match presentation is an opportunity for all participants to come together and share in the camaraderie of the event. We appreciate your patience as we ensure that everyone has the chance to be part of this special recognition.

 

16. Membership Reminder:

Welcoming Participation for Guests and Non-Members: We extend a warm welcome to guests and non-members who are eager to participate in our league events. Feel free to join us and experience the excitement of up to two league events without the commitment of a membership.
 

Membership Requirement for Continued Participation: After enjoying two league events, we kindly remind guests and non-members that continued participation will require a membership. This allows us to maintain the quality of our events and provide long-term benefits to those dedicated to being part of our golfing community.

 


17. Code of Conduct – TGC Events

As participants in our golf event, we expect all attendees to adhere to a high standard of sportsmanship and respect. Please familiarize yourself with the following guidelines to ensure a positive and inclusive experience for everyone:
 

  • Sportsmanship:
    • Display courtesy, fairness, and respect towards fellow participants, officials, and event staff.
    • Accept both victory and defeat with grace and maintain a positive attitude on the course.
  • Cheating:
    • Strictly refrain from any form of cheating, including altering scores, moving the ball unfairly, or engaging in dishonest practices.
  • Aggressive Behaviour:
    • Avoid any aggressive or confrontational behaviour on and off the course.
    • Resolve disagreements in a calm and respectful manner, seeking assistance from event officials if necessary.
  • Racism and Discrimination:
    • Embrace diversity and inclusivity, refraining from any form of racist, sexist, or discriminatory language or actions.
    • Treat all participants with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or characteristics.
  • Bullying and Harassment:
    • Zero tolerance for bullying, harassment, or intimidation of any kind.
    • Create a supportive environment where all participants feel comfortable and valued.
       

Participants found in violation of these guidelines may face disciplinary action, including warnings, disqualification, or removal from the event. Let's collectively contribute to a golf event that promotes camaraderie, fair play, and a welcoming atmosphere for everyone involved.

 


18. Embracing Fun on the Fairways - Gentle Reminder:

  • Inclusivity at The Golf Collective:
    • At The Golf Collective, we pride ourselves on being an all-inclusive club that extends a warm invitation to members from other courses, clubs, and social groups to not only participate in our events but also join our membership while retaining their existing affiliations. We believe in the strength of diversity, considering it a cornerstone of our golfing community. We understand and value the loyalty that many golfers have to their home clubs, and we welcome you to enrich your golfing experience with us while maintaining those cherished connections. Your unique perspective and background only add to the tapestry of our inclusive and vibrant golf community at The Golf Collective.
  • Enjoy the Experience:
    • Remember, as much as it’s a competition this event is about having a good time. Embrace the opportunity to enjoy the game, the camaraderie, and the overall experience.
  • Smiles Over Scores:
    • While competition is part of the fun, prioritize the enjoyment of the game over the pursuit of perfection. A smile goes a long way!
  • Cheers, Not Tears:
    • Celebrate successes, laugh off the mishaps, and remember that every swing contributes to the overall enjoyment of the event.
  • Positive Vibes Only:
    • Maintain a positive and encouraging atmosphere. Lift each other up, share a joke, and let the friendly banter add to the joy of the day.
  • Create Memories:
    • Cherish the moments on the course. Whether it's a fantastic shot or a friendly chat, make memories that extend beyond the scorecard.
  • Fun is the Ultimate Goal:
    • Keep in mind that, at the heart of it all, we're here to have fun. Let the joy of the game be your driving force throughout the event.

 

Should you have any questions regarding any of the above or need further assistance, please don't hesitate to contact our event coordinators by emailing admin@thegolfcollective.com.au. Wishing you a day filled with great golf and camaraderie at our event!


 

Best Regards,

 

The Golf Collective

 

Updated by RM - 13/05/2024