Inside Golf, Australia. August 2014 | Page 13

news Lynwood CC, Castle Hill RSL explore amalgamation S YDNEY’S Lynwood Country Club and Castle Hill RSL Club Group have announced the commencement of formal partnership discussions to pursue opportunities for amalgamation. young golfers not only at the game of golf but also in Youth Leadership Programs.” Clubs NSW CEO Anthony Ball welcomed the announcement. “Castle Hill RSL Group plays a vital role in the Hills and Parramatta Communities and commends both the RSL and the Lynwood Country Club for initiating this discussion. Over the years we’ve seen clubs shut their doors because they have waited too long for amalgamation. That’s why it is so important that these clubs are working together to make sure that the Lynwood Country Club continues to do great work in the community”. Like many clubs across Australia, Lynwood has been challenged by the ongoing financial viability of the club, with increasing cost pressures, cashflow challenges and difficult trading conditions. And they are not alone: A recent KPMG survey showed that 64% of the NSW Golf Clubs in NSW are in or at risk of financial distress. One percent of NSW Golf Clubs close every year, with 110 clubs in NSW now closed or amalgamated. To combat these pressures, Lynwood put out an Expression of Interest to the industry 12 months ago, seeking a potential amalgamation partner. Castle Hill was receptive to the request due to their community ties with the northwest sector, particularly in the Hawkesbury region. “The Board of Lynwood Country Club is delighted to confirm partnership discussions with Castle Hill RSL regarding a proposed amalgamation,” said Tony Sgro, President of Lynwood Country Club. “The Boards of both clubs are working on a Memorandum of Understanding proceeding Deed of Agreement. “The Lynwood vision is to develop our facility to be one of the premier golfing and leisure facilities in Sydney. This amalgamation Lynwood Country Club with such a significant partner as Castle Hill RSL will maximise ѡ