Updated: Golf Clubs across the region are facing tougher restrictions as the government tightens the rules on the non-essential activity requirements.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Despite golf coming in under a non contact sport, recommendations were put in place by Golf Australia to assist clubs with adhering to government guidelines.
Flags were removed from holes, competition entries and green fees were to be placed in entry slots.
Due to the ageing population of members, both Chalambar and Stawell Golf Clubs put protective measures in place.
Both club's had ceased competition indefinitely.
In a statement released on social media, Chalambar Golf Club said the course was still available for golfers who wish to have a hit by themselves or in pairs.
"Green fees and receipt can be left in the green fees box. Please follow all recommended health measures and maintain social distancing guidelines," it read.
Similarly Stawell Golf Club's statement on social media read the same:
"Given the Prime Minister's and Premier's recent comments to stay at home if at all possible, the Stawell Golf Club executive have made a decision to suspend competition golf from midnight tonight (Wednesday) until further notice," it read.
"The course remains open for the time being, however this may also change."
Stawell women golfers played their last Wednesday competition before the course was closed.
Earlier: Several of the region's golf clubs will remain open to the public, but with slight moderations to how members use the facility to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
Horsham Golf Club and Murtoa Golf Club have confirmed they will stay open, despite a nation-wide shutdown of all non-essential services, while Chalambar Golf Course was still undecided on the matter.
After a late-night meeting on Monday, the Horsham Golf Club committee decided to remain open.
"At this stage, the Horsham Golf Club is able to confirm that its course remains open to its members and to our local community," manager Janene Coutts said.
"Given the current environment, we are encouraging of individuals to utilise this facility while you can with absolute attention given to adhering to the rulings on social distancing and general hygiene.
Ms Coutts said normal weekly golf competitions remain in place.
Murta Golf Club manager Graeme Maher said normally the club wouldn't normally be open to the public until April, but he and the committee agreed to monitor the situation carefully.
"We may need to make some minor adjustments to how we operate," Mr Maher said.
"Our biggest concern is the demographic of our membership is the community's most vulnerable people.
"Our challenge is to make sure they are not at risk.
"Fortunately, Golf Australia has provided all clubs with a guide to deal with the coronavirus and still remain open.
"Golf is an outside game after everything that is going on, physical and mental wellbeing is paramount."
Mr Maher said the club may remove pins, reduce group sizes and prevent cash payments have all been mooted to protect members.
Ararat's Chalambar Golf Course was undecided on whether it would close its doors to the public, with a committee meeting taking place on Tuesday afternoon.
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox twice weekly from the Wimmera Mail-Times. To make sure you're up-to-date with all the news from across the Wimmera, sign up below.