Author: cumberland

March ENews

March 3, 2026Comments Off on March ENewsNews

As this is a short month so too will be my monthly article, because by the time you read this I will be cruising on the high seas for a couple of weeks.

You will also have received a special newsletter advising that from the 1 March 2026 we have introduced a Joining Fee of $1,000 Adult | $500 Intermediate | $300 Junior. This will bring us in line with other like golf clubs in our region that charge a joining fee and help with the ever increasing costs of running the business.

Whilst I’ll leave it to VC Martin Smith to comment on progress of our golf works, I can’t wait to see how much more progress Flemmings make in the next couple of weeks. I’m sure you’ll agree it’s a great transformation right before our eyes and well worth waiting for.

Bon Voyage.

Denis Clifford
Club President

It’s already March and the strong scoring to start the year continues.

February Medal Results

  • A Grade Medal – Michael Scott (11) – 60

  • B Grade Medal – Ferdi du Sart (16) – 60

  • C Grade Medal – Simon Brownlow (21) – 61 CB

February’s Medal round also served as the qualifying event for the Club’s Match Play Championship. Congratulations to all members who qualified. Round 1 is to be played on or before Saturday March 21st.

We also conducted the qualifying rounds for the Cock of the Walk. Best of luck to all players as the competition progresses.

Hole-in-One Achievements
Congratulations to Kug Chan Lee, who recorded a hole-in-one on the 11th hole, and Samuel Manachian, who achieved a hole-in-one on the 3rd hole. Outstanding accomplishments by both players.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Holroyd Shield Winner
Congratulations to Samuel Manachian on winning the Holroyd Shield. The presentation will take place on Saturday 14th March.

This represents a fantastic achievement for Samuel, recording two major golfing milestones within his first month of membership, a remarkable start that sets a very high standard.

Major Pennant
Our Major Pennant team plays their final round this weekend, teeing off at 7:00am at home. With a win, the team remains a strong chance to play finals. Members are encouraged to come out and support the team.

There have been some terrific contests this season, and last Sunday’s match against Macquarie Links was no exception, with Jordan Ross and Captain Josh Russo producing outstanding shots on the final hole to secure a vital half point away from home.

Course Works Update
Many of you will have noticed that course works are nearing completion. We are on the cusp of unveiling something very special when the course reopens later this year.

Important Safety Reminder
Work zones across the course are designated No Play Zones and Restricted Entry Areas. Members must not enter these areas for any reason, including retrieving golf balls. These restrictions are in place for your safety and must be strictly observed.

Happy Golfing!
Shannon Bridger
Club Captain

The recent stretch of humid weather has certainly made its presence felt across the course. These conditions have created consistently soft and moist surfaces, and while this has presented some challenges, the greens staff continue to manage the impact closely with regular monitoring, additional rolling and careful adjustments to mowing schedules. We appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we work through this tricky part of the season.

Below are a couple of photos from the latest coursework, which many members will have noticed progressing steadily over recent weeks:

These new works are now in their final stages of turfing and seeding, with the team putting the finishing touches on shaping, drainage and surface preparation. Once established, these improvements will enhance playability and long‑term resilience across the course.

Work zones have now extended to the 10th tee and practice putting green. This area will be marked with flagged rope to indicate the designated work zone. During the works in this space, the practice putting green will be temporarily closed. All cart access to the 1st and 10th tee will be via the club carpark. Signage will be in place to assist.

Looking ahead, Greens Renovations are scheduled for the end of this month. This essential program will include coring, sanding and recovery works to ensure our putting surfaces remain healthy heading into the cooler months.

Dam Levels:
– 2nd Dam – 95%
– 12th Dam – 75%

Course Construction March Program

– Solid turfing for all greens surrounds and bunker edges, seeding 9, 18 and the new practice green.

– Finishing the flow up between the old 5th and 9th dams

– Solid turfing of the 18th tee and fairway.

Mid to Late March onwards

– Construction of the new 10th tee complex

Thank you again for your continued support of the greens team and the work underway to keep the course in great condition.

Martin Smith
Vice Captain
Chair of the Greens Committee

LADIES PRESIDENT REPORT

Over the past month since we resumed our comp games we have had some very hot and humid days, which have made for challenging conditions, although obviously they have not affected everyone with some very impressive scores being obtained. Well done to those ladies.

It’s exciting to see more and more of the course renovations coming to fruition. The comments re the course, from the two recent visiting pennant teams were very complimentary.

Best wishes to our current pennant ladies for their upcoming matches.

Our next “event” will be The Easter Open on 24th March. As usual it will be an 8am shotgun start.

Let’s hope the weather stabilises over the next few weeks, so we can enjoy our golf in comfort.

Anyway wishing you enjoyable and fun times on the course.

Barbara Cocks
Ladies President

LADIES CAPTAIN REPORT 

It’s March already! Ladies Grade and Bronze 1 Pennants are well underway. The year’s first major event- the 2Ball Knockout has been played, won and awarded. The Easter Open day is coming up at the end of the month and the first Medal round will be played on 3/3. 2026 is definitely off to a flying start!

Congratulations to Eunmi Pyun and Matilda Hwang who fought off all the other qualifying pairs over the past 3 Tuesdays, to take out the 2 Ball Knockout trophy for 2026.
The Ladies Grade team have secured consecutive wins at Cumberland and then at Penrith and a wash out at Mona Vale to be on top of the competition table. With 2 matches to play, the team are digging in and honing their skills and strategy with practice rounds at both Elanora and Moore Park. The team are very dedicated and have great team and Club spirit. Go team Cumberland! Hoping for continued success!
Our Bronze 1 team has several players new to match play and pennants this year. With a bye in round 1 and a loss the following match at Carnarvon, the team are fired up and eager to get things moving. Bringing in experienced caddies the plan going forward is to settle our new players and give them plenty of support and confidence. Good luck ladies for the next match at Massey Park.
Upcoming Tuesday Events-
3/3 1st Medal round
10/3 Round 1 Captains trophy
17/3 St Patrick’s Day team event
24/3 Easter Open Day – Visitors most welcome
31/3 Course closed- Ladies comp on Thursday 2/4
Looking forward to reporting all the pennant results and winners of our novelty events next month.

Good golfing Ladies!
Tracey Hilton (Ladies Captain)

The Course Is Taking Shape – And It’s Looking Fantastic!

There is a real buzz building around the club — and if you’ve taken a walk around lately, you’ll know exactly why.

The course changes are progressing beautifully, and it’s exciting to see the transformation unfolding week by week. The shaping work, turf development and finishing touches are starting to define what will be a truly outstanding layout.

When the course officially reopens, it’s going to be something very special. We cannot wait to see members back out there experiencing the new look and feel for themselves.

Upcoming Events & Fitting Days

🔥 TaylorMade Fitting Day – Thursday 12th March, 12:00pm – 5:00pm

🔵 Ping Fitting Day – Friday 20th March, 1:00pm – 6:00pm

🎯 TaylorMade Short Game Afternoon – Friday 27th March, 2:00pm – 6:00pm

Spots are limited for all fitting days, so be sure to book early through the Pro Shop.

FREE 30-Minute Driver Testing – March

Not sure if your current shaft or loft is right for you?

Throughout March we’re offering a FREE 30-minute driver testing session.
Book in and we’ll test your current driver setup to ensure you’re getting the most distance and control possible.

Special Promotions

🏆 WIN A Fitted TaylorMade Qi4D Driver

Purchase a 7-piece TaylorMade iron set and go into the draw to win a professionally fitted TaylorMade Qi4D Driver. Winner drawn: 10th April

⛳ TaylorMade Ball Offer

Purchase a dozen TaylorMade TP5 balls and receive a FREE sleeve.

👟 Footwear Special

Purchase a new pair of Pro SL shoes and receive a bonus limited edition shoe bag.

There is so much to look forward to — a refreshed course, exciting new equipment, fitting opportunities and some great giveaways.

From everyone at Banners Golf, thank you for your continued support during the course upgrades. We can’t wait to welcome you back onto what is shaping up to be an exceptional course.

The Team at Banners Golf

Thank You To all Our Sponsors for their support!

Pennant News

February 10, 2026Comments Off on Pennant NewsNews

PENNANT NEWS

Major Pennant Report – Round 5 vs Macquarie Links

Round 5 commenced on an overcast Sunday morning, with the rain holding off for the start of play.

The opening nine holes were fiercely contested, with all matches tightly fought. At the turn, the overall team result was evenly poised, reflecting just how close the contest was.

Macquarie Links secured the first completed match, before Cumberland responded through Joshua Madeleine, who delivered an outstanding 5&3 victory to get the team on the board.

From there, the results seesawed, with both sides claiming crucial wins as the morning unfolded.

The final outcome came down to Jordan Ross and Joshua Russo, who both produced under pressure. Jordan secured a 1up victory on the 18th hole, while Joshua fought back bravely to square his match, ensuring the overall team result ended all square.

Match Highlights:

·         Duncan Bowen continued his outstanding form, securing a commanding 6&4 victory to remain undefeated after five matches.
·         Joshua Madeleine produced a superb 5&3 win in a dominant display.
·         Jordan Ross, all square on the 18th tee, produced what could well be the shot of the day—if not the season—to claim a memorable 1‑up victory.
·         Joshua Russo, trailing by two for much of the back nine, showed tremendous composure by birdieing the 17th and 18th holes to square his match.
·         In the reserve match, Hayden Smith squared his match, providing valuable support to the overall team effort.

It was a pleasing away result for the team, highlighted by strong performances across the board.

The half point puts us in a strong position, and a solid home‑course victory next week will give us a very good chance of progressing to the semi‑finals.

A sincere thank you to all the caddies who continue to support the players each week—your contribution plays an important role in the results we achieve.

Final Result:
Cumberland 3.5 tied Macquarie Links 3.5

A huge thank you to all the family, friends, and members who came out to support the team. Your encouragement is genuinely appreciated and always makes a difference.

Our next match is on Sunday, 8 March at Cumberland, with a 7:00 am tee‑off. We would love to see as many supporters there as possible to cheer the team on.

Individual Results:

1.  Isaak Pemble – lost 3&2
2.  Joshua Russo – match halved
3.  Duncan Bowen – won 6&4
4.  Jordan Ross – won 1up
5.  Joshua Madeleine – won 5&3
6.  Sean Moylan – lost 5&4
7.  Liam Sherry – lost 3&2
Res.  Hayden Smith – match halved

Matt Andrew
Team Manager

Women’s Grade Round 2 – Cumberland vs Mona Vale at Penrith GC 20/2/26
The team enjoyed a later start this morning at Penrith GC against traditionally tough opponents- Mona Vale.
With the vital support of their caddies, congratulations go to our girls winning 3:2!
Individual scores
Jacinta Toberty won 3/2
Eunmi Pyun lost 3/1
Soon Lee lost 6/4
SuJin Yoo won 3/2
Jessica Kim won 2 up
Next Friday the team take on Woolooware at Mona Vale GC.
Go team Cumberland!!
Tracey Hilton
Ladies Captain

Golf Course Enabling Works – CEO Update

September 9, 2025Comments Off on Golf Course Enabling Works – CEO UpdateNews

CEO Update
GOLF COURSE WORKS
CURRENT PROGRESS & OUTLOOK

Stage 2

Fairway creek Construction

The reconstruction of the creek crossing the 2nd fairway is approximately 80% complete. Remaining works include:

  •               Installation of a new cart bridge and pedestrian bridge
  •              Minor shaping and landscaping along both sides of the creek

Sand Slit Drainage (2nd Fairway)

The visible trenches on the right-hand side of the 2nd fairway are part of a new sand slit drainage system.

  •          These drainage lines will extend laterally across the fairway, improving water dispersal and playability.
  •          Works will be scheduled outside of competition play to minimise disruption

New Pump Station

A new pump station is currently being installed between the two dams on the 2nd fairway. This will allow water to be pumped from either dam independently or simultaneously, depending on operational requirements.

The upgrade provides the Superintendent with increased flexibility and access to a greater volume of water when needed. Additionally, the project includes the modernisation of associated infrastructure and equipment, further enhancing the club’s irrigation capabilities. ( indicative size &  location as shown in image)

New 14th Green

 Progress is strong with:

  •         Drainage, irrigation, and greens profile expected to be completed within days.
  •         Barring delays, full completion of this section is anticipated in the coming weeks.

11th Green & Dam Wall

The new 11th green is taking shape, however: Delays were encountered due to the unsuitability of the existing rock wall on the dam’s edge, requiring further construction. The dam has been emptied to allow installation of a new stormwater pit plus construction of the new rock wall

Turfing and Seeding

Once earthworks are complete:

  •            All affected areas will be solid turfed
  •            Greens will be seeded
  •           All heavy machinery will then relocate for commencement of Stage 3

Stage 3-Timeline

We are targeting an early October commencement for Stage 3, with completion aimed for the first week of February 2026.

I will provide further details as this stage progresses

Following the construction phase:
A 3-month grow-in period will be required for turf and greens to properly establish. This phase will represent a major milestone—bringing us significantly closer to unveiling the new course layout.

Once playable, the existing 1st hole will close, and all members and visitors will transition to playing the new course in its entirety. As always I encourage members who may have questions or hear some stories, which may not be true, to please come and see me and I will provide you with facts

Thank you for your ongoing support and patience as we continue to transform Cumberland for the future.

Warm regards,

Andrew Laplain CCM
CEO – Cumberland Country Golf Club

Development Approval

May 2, 2025Comments Off on Development ApprovalNews

Development Update – Construction of Temporary Greens

March 28, 2024Comments Off on Development Update – Construction of Temporary GreensNews

Dear Members,

I am happy to advise that the first construction works to facilitate the development are about to commence. As many of you are aware, we are embarking on an exciting journey to enhance our course and clubhouse, and I am thrilled to share an important update with you.

Construction of the temporary greens is set to commence on April 2nd. Once completed these greens will allow for uninterrupted 18 holes of play during the course enabling works.

These temporary greens will be located on the 2nd, 4th, 9th, and 18th holes and are indicated on the Map below.

During the construction phase and until the temporary greens are ready for play, it’s essential to note that the areas occupied by these temporary greens will be designated as compulsory ground under repair (GUR). This designation ensures the safety and fairness of play during this transitional period.

During construction of these greens, our spare Lake Johnson hole and temporary course ratings will be utilised. These adjustments are necessary to maintain the integrity and quality of your golfing experience throughout the development process.

We understand that these changes may bring some adjustments to your regular game, but we assure you that every effort is being made to minimise disruptions and ensure a seamless transition. Your patience and understanding during this time are greatly appreciated as we work towards creating an even better golfing environment for all our members.

Please stay tuned for further updates as construction progresses. Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm for our club’s growth and improvement.
Martin Smith
Chairman of Greens

Development Update – Golf Course Enabling Works

March 14, 2024Comments Off on Development Update – Golf Course Enabling WorksNews

Dear Members,

With the latest news, our development partner Partier are on the eve of lodging a Development Application for the Independent Living Units. I thought I should take some time to highlight the pending changes to our current 2nd, 4th, 5th, 9th and 18th holes. These changes are displayed in the Clubhouse as well as in the body of this newsletter.
The back nine will commence on the existing 6th, there is no change to this hole. On completion of the hole, you will wander down to the new 11th hole, which is situated behind the new 14th.

The new 11th is the combination of part of the current 4th and 5th holes. It will traverse around the big gum which currently cohabitates with the fairway bunker on the existing 4th and then you will trek down to the area where the current 5th green is situated. The dam will be slightly enlarged, and the green side dam wall raised and beautified.

The cart path currently adjacent to the green will be removed to allow the green to flow into the dam. The path repositioned on the left of the green, will provide an access to the 12th (existing 2nd hole) which will remain as is but will have a small creek installed at the base of the gully heading up to the green. The creek in part is an architectural design feature but also to weatherproof the course in that area. As we all saw in the big wet of 2022, this area was impassable. On playing the hole, players will need to decide on the reward for risk aspect when approaching the shot into the green.
The 14th hole is utilising the first third of the existing 4th hole and has been designed with a small pond protecting the front left-hand side of the green. This pond will be the water source for the wee burn that will flow across the gully on our existing 2nd. The long hitters will question, reward for risk at 290 metres. There will be a number of ways to play this hole. The green will slope back to front and will have bunkering at the rear to catch any long shots.
The existing 9th will be shaped into two holes. The first a par 4 measuring 307 metres played from the existing 9th tees, the green will be guarded by strategically placed bunkers.

Utilising the remaining parts of the existing 9th hole, the new 18th will be across the enlarged dam, measuring 129 metres and protected by the dam and bunkers at the rear. The design incorporates a bail out zone located on the right for those not wanting to take on the water.

The clubhouse terrace will be situated between the 9th and 18th greens, so expect many an afternoon cheering as players challenge the 18th hole across the great expanse of water.

The new 9th will be played from the existing 18th tee and the new hole will play 449 metres. The existing 18th green will be relocated and new bunkers created.

The Par for the new course when opened will be 70 and will measure 5532 metres or 6050 yards. The course will see several dams enlarged, a new pond, new bunkers and 3 new USGA standard greens built. The course’s make up will be 3 x par 5’s, 10 x par 4’s, and 5 x par 3’s. The final design will be subject to approval under a Development Application.

In the first half of 2024, work will commence on the construction of the temporary greens required to ensure we have a full 18 hole golf course during the Course Enabling works.

Temporary Course Design in Three Stages

There will be some disruption to the course over the period of the enabling works, and all efforts will be undertaken to provide members an enjoyable experience while we transition to the new course.

Preparations are now underway to build the four (4) temporary greens so the enabling works can commence once the Development Application is approved.
Stage 1 – Par 71
A new temporary green is to be constructed on the 2nd fairway prior to the rise leading to the existing green, to enable the trenching of the wee burn. The hole will play as a Par 4. The construction of the wee burn is highlighted in green and blue.
Stage 2 – Par 68
A new temporary green is to be situated on 9th fairway prior to the dip, to enable the construction works to commence on Lake Johnson. The 18th will play as a par 5, the constructions zone is highlighted in colour.
Stage 3 – Par 64

New temporaries constructed on the 4th and 18th fairway, to enable the construction works on the existing 4th and 5th holes to be undertaken. The temporary on the 2nd to be reinstated and a par 3 to the existing 2nd green created. The 5th hole will play as a par 3, the shorten 6th hole will be played as a par 3. The 9th will play as a par 4 and on finishing the hole, players will walk across to the shorten 10th hole as indicated by the blue dotted line. The construction zone is highlighted in colour.

The Board wish to thank you for your patience and engagement as we watch the future of Cumberland Country Golf Club develop.
Martin Smith
Chairman of the Greens Committee
On behalf of the Board of Directors
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