Since we have come back from our Christmas break machinery servicing and concentrating on painting summer markers has been our main objective. The team are doing really well and we are coming to the end of the markers, however there are more pieces of course furniture to bring in and stain/ paint, which isnt too bad as we have a couple of staff members carrying injuries at the moment. Our greens chairman is helping make some fixed bins which we hope will solve the litter issues which comes from the open wire bins we currently have on the course.
The machinery servicing schedule is going well we have completed a few of the smaller machines, repairing where needed and checking all moving parts for wear and tear to ensure they are ready to last another season without too many issues. All oils and filters are replaced and all cutting units are sharpened 'in house'. As time goes by the machines get to a point where servicing and running costs out weigh the cost of replacement, sometimes older machines become inefficient and labour intensive compared to some of the newer machines which are available nowadays. So when planning a replacement schedule I look at the overall running costs and how we can maximise the labour we have available.
Hedge cutting and shrub pruning is continuing
The irrigation installation is underway, the base for the tanks has been excavated and the hardcore is being transported in preparation for the concrete to be poured. We have removed a section of hedge to allow access to the range without making to much mess around the range entrance. The pipework is being stretched out to prevent it snagging during installation. This will be pulled out on to the course so its ready to be ploughed in. Their starting point is on holes 2-7, this is going to be the most difficult area of the course as its very stoney and the topsoil is very shallow in places. Once the crossing point is reached ( between the 2nd hole and the 11th green ) the going should be easier. All control boxes are to be replaced and new valve sets to be installed. The contractors are aware of the ground conditions and any damage made will be reinstated as best possible. Further updates will be posted later this week. Holes 1-9 will be closed for a number of days until the work is complete. Again further updates will be posted as to hole closure and information will be passed to the pro shop. The range may also have closures to protect staff safety during transportation of materials.
