Golf Australia is continuing to recommend the closure of golf courses around the country, in line with directions from the various federal and state government health authorities.
In it’s latest Newsletter, GA say:
“Furthermore, we strongly believe that unity, prudence and safety during this unprecedented crisis is the best way for us to assist with “flattening the curve” of Covid-19’s surge through the community and we believe that golf and our industry has a role to play in doing this.”
Further:
“Our recommendation to remain closed therefore remains the same – Australia and our community come first.
“As always, Golf Australia remains on hand to offer clubs advice and support through these troubling times, regardless of whether or not they’ve chosen to open or close.” See the full statement here.
However, the continuing changing landscape regarding Covid-19 restrictions has meant some states taking a different direction, mostly based on positions taken by their state health authorities – particularly in relation to “social distancing”.
In Victoria, the matter is quite clear cut! Courses are to remain closed.
As GA says:
“Whilst we understand it may be frustrating for some Victorians to see people in other states permitted to play golf, the Victorian Government appears to have taken the strongest stance in trying to keep people at home to stop the spread of the virus.”
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Professor Brett Sutton (in one of the very few references specific to golf) said;
“….these are unprecedented times. The threat of coronavirus to public health is real and everyone must take physical distancing seriously.
“Unfortunately, this means no fishing, no hunting, no boating, no camping, and no golf. Hang up your rods, leave the tinnie in the driveway, and clean your clubs at home,” Professor Sutton said.
“We ask Victorians to stop looking for loopholes. Just do the right thing. The advice is clear; by staying at home you’re saving lives.
“These restrictions are tough, but they are there for a reason. If we don’t do this, Victorians will die. “No round of golf or gym session with your mate is worth that cost.” See the full statement here.
A part of the golf rationale is the travel aspect as well.
The Government does not want people travelling from inner Melbourne for example (which is a Covid-19 hot spot) to other parts of Melbourne or the state to play golf, as travel is a large part of the way the virus is spreading.