By Shelby Brooks
Despite impending stormy weather, golfers in Pakenham were out in high numbers at Deep Creek Golf Club yesterday, Wednesday 29 September for the first day back on the course.
Restrictions eased on outdoor physical recreation facilities including golf courses, tennis clubs and cricket grounds as Victoria reached 80 per cent first dose vaccinations.
Mark Shaw and son Cooper, 4, were thrilled to be back at Deep Creek.
Mark, who runs Mark Shaw Golf lessons, said the easing of restrictions meant he could start earning an income again.
“People might be a bit rusty so I’m pleased I can start my lessons again,“ he said.
Deep Creek chief executive Haydn Thompson said the first day back had been “hectic“.
“We do have a two group limit so it’s reduced our capacity a bit but we’ll have about 120 people come through today,“ he said.
“It’s fantastic to see everyone back playing the sport they love with friends and family for social interaction.“
Restrictions apply to playing numbers depending on vaccination status.
According to Golf Australia, the Chief Health Officer’s directives state play must be in groups of two (for players who have received one or no vaccine doses) or in groups of four for players who are fully vaccinated (from a maximum of two households).
Players must reside within 15km of the club that they are playing at.
Masks must be worn at all times unless there is a medical reason not to do so and club competitions must not be conducted.
Mr Thompson said they were still waiting on clarification about the driving range and golf cart hire.
