The R&A has announced the launch of the first Golf Course 2030 project in Australia and New Zealand, with a focus on demonstrating the positive role golf courses can play in nature conservation and ecological restoration.
The initiative is led by Australia’s leading experts in golf course biodiversity – Kate Torgersen and Monina Gilbey of consultants Torgersen Gilbey. The project will bring together leading environmental projects and practical course management to collate examples of best practice in biodiversity stewardship from golf courses across Australia and New Zealand.
The project will highlight how golf facilities, when managed responsibly, can provide thriving habitats in the urban environment for native wildlife, protect ecosystems and contribute to wider environmental goals.
As part of the project, participating golf courses will contribute case studies and on-the-ground evidence showing how course management practices are enhancing biodiversity and supporting local nature conservation efforts. The findings will be compiled into a comprehensive resource to inspire and guide sustainable course management in Australia, New Zealand and globally.
Dr Brett Morris, Agronomist in Asia-Pacific at The R&A, said, “There are a large number of golf courses across the Australia and New Zealand region who are championing biodiversity on their property and are achieving great results. This review will highlight and promote these works which directly align with The R&A’s GC2030 initiative focusing on biodiversity, resources, climate change and sustainable agronomy, ensuring that golf courses are thriving in the decades to come.”
Torgerson and Gilbey noted, “We are very excited to be partnering with The R&A on this project. Together, we’ll be telling the stories of the incredible environmental work underway at golf courses throughout Australia and New Zealand. This is a fantastic opportunity to show how these courses are more than just a place to play golf – they are vital to the green infrastructure of cities and essential hubs for urban biodiversity and the protection of native flora and fauna.”
Golf course managers across Australia and New Zealand are encouraged to register their interest in participating in the project by submitting their details via the online form www.torgersengilbey.com.au/gc2030-aunz-submission.