NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
BY MARK WHITING
I usually have too much to say, so let’s see if
I can put it to good use!
Welcome to the 1st edition of GMAQ’s
e-mag for 2018. After a stellar reign as
editor, the ever-reliable Scott Wagstaff
has stepped back this year and passed
the editor’s duties to me. I’m sure you
will all join me in thanking Scott for the
marvellous job he has done over many
years. I am excited by the challenge of the
new role and hopefully, with the assistance
of the great crew at Golf Industry Central,
we will be able to provide an informative
and entertaining publication.
The Golf industry’s premier evening, the
QGI awards, was recently held at the Star
Casino on the Gold Coast. With over 460
guests attending the event has grown to be,
in my opinion, the showcase event of not
only Queensland but also the Australian
golf industry. Congratulations to all the
winners and nominees.
While at the awards I had a quick chat
with a fellow Golf Club Manager that went
along the lines of;
“So how’s business,” “Mate I made over
$100,000 in the first six months, then got
smashed by rain in January and February
and lost the lot.”
The conversation could have been had
with many Managers I believe, given how
prone we are to the weather. The reason
I raise it is to illustrate one of the reasons
the Golf Managers Association is vital to
Club Managers. For it is only other Club
Managers that can have an understanding
of what each other goes through. Our
boards try to understand but unless they
are in our shoes, it’s difficult. We all have
that certain lady committee member or
that belligerent Veteran member in every
Club, the characters are the same just with
different names. We all battle the weather,
the challenges with membership retention,
the expectation of an ever demanding
customer and the constant challenge in
finding and keeping quality staff. When
Managers come together over a beer, we
know the other guy (or girl) gets it.
About GMAQ
Golf Management Australia
- Queensland [GMAQ] is the
professional organisation serving
the needs of managers within
Queensland Golf. This e-magazine
is now a major communications
channel and deliverance of up to date
information for managers involved
We can talk freely, we can unload, we can
gain advice and sometimes we can simply
just have a laugh and a good time. I have
been fortunate enough to be a member
of GMAQ for over 15 years and have held
solid friendships with many great people in
our industry during this time. in all areas of golf administration
So if you are reading this and considering
membership, join! Considering coming
to more events, do! Need to pick up the
phone and unload, call! We hope that the e-magazine will
throughout Queensland.
Membership to GMAQ is open
to all Golf Club Managers and
administrators within Queensland.
broaden the resources available to
managers – aiding the fulfillment of
their occupational objectives.
That’s what GMAQ is to me.
Until next edition, I hope the weather is
kind, your tee shots are straight, business is
good and you smile a lot!
Mark Whiting - Editor
GM Ballina Golf and Sports Club
Publisher
GOLF INDUSTRY CENTRAL
Morlo Pty Ltd ACN 123 872 784
ABN 1812 3872 784
PO BOX 4743,
Robina Town Centre
Robina, QLD, Australia 4230
Contents may not be reproduced
without written permission. Views
expressed in editorial contributions do
not necessarily reflect the opinions of
this publication and it’s management.
GMAQ Committee
President
Aaron Muirhead
Nudgee GC
Captain
Scott Wagstaff
Carbrook GC
Treasurer
Gavin Lawrence
Keperra Country GC
Secretary
Sharon Purnell
Mt. Coolum GC
Committee
Andrew Webb
City GC
AUTUMN 2018
Committee
Jason Looker
Coloundra GC
I GMAQ
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