Guest Speaker Meeting notes – Spencer Cooper – Green Superintendent at Remuera Golf Club.A great presentation outlining the Remuera Golf Club, (RGC), environmental and sustainability strategy history and future. In 2014 the RGC developed a strategy to become more sustainable based on Golf Environment Organisation (GEO) with the key elements of: nature, water, pollution control, supply chain, energy and community. Each of these elements are being developed and refined to make RGC a model for Golf Courses throughout New Zealand and internationally.
The RGC was established in 1934 from land reclaimed after Lake Waiatarua was drained and fast-growing trees such as Pines and Gums were planted. These are gradually being replaced by native trees that will enhance the environment.
Pest eradication has been a major focus over the past decade getting rid of possums, stoats and with the traps supplied from the Men’s Shed has resulted in a massive drop in numbers. With less predators nesting boxes for RURU and other native species (KAKA) they are becoming more abundant. Spencer has engaged with local schools with talks and golf course tours to demonstrate environmental sustainability in action.
Grass sequesters more C02 than trees (who would have known that!), and makes RGC carbon neutral. In association with Panasonic all major buildings will have solar panels installed and will provide enough electricity to power the entire complex. In time all machinery will be converted to electric powered which not only reduces maintenance but also keeps the neighbours happy with reduced noise.
Golf is currently enjoying huge growth and RGC has committed to providing a high-quality environment for the community to enjoy the game.
A special thanks to David Hartstone for taking the above meeting notes in the editors absence!