Completion of $1.8m irrigation project suits The Pines to a tee

Sanctuary Cove’s exclusive Pines golf course has been transformed with completion of a $1.8 million irrigation project.

Australia’s only Arnold Palmer signature designed course has installed new infrastructure on all 18 holes, complemented by an $80,000 upgrade of the driving range.

Thanks to a new Toro irrigation system, recycled water is being delivered more efficiently throughout the 60ha of The Pines golf course. Features include an upgraded pump station and sensors to monitor soil moisture, meaning water coverage and delivery can be regulated accordingly.

The project began in October 2019 and was undertaken by experienced golf course construction and irrigation company, Prolinks. Improvements to the driving range include irrigation, the building of three target greens and the planting of 800 trees.

Not even the COVID-19 pandemic could halt progress. Golf Course Superintendent Mr Paul McLean said golf activity had actually increased in recent months as the project continued.

“Many of our Members are Sanctuary Cove residents and, being a gated community, it served as a kind of ready-made hub. Plus, social distancing is not as difficult on a golf course when compared to other settings,” said Mr McLean.

“The result is that we’ve been busier than ever before. Our regular Members are playing more often, our Membership has increased, and some who hadn’t played for a long time have reunited with the game.”

Mr Paul Sanders, Executive General Manager of Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club, said the new system takes The Pines golf course to another level in terms of golf infrastructure, maintenance, environmental care and playing conditions.

“The Pines golf course was already regarded as one of the best golf courses in Australia and it was important to not just maintain that standing, but to enhance it,” said Mr Sanders.

“Despite the impact of COVID-19, we were able to comply with all the health and safety requirements and still continue with this major course improvement.

“Our Members have been so understanding throughout, so it’s wonderful to now have a transformed golf course for them and for new Members coming on board.”

Story written by Michael Jacobson.