By Mathilda Andersson

The rousing success of Golf Australia’s GOLF MONTH in October last year has prompted its 2016 return.

In 2014, some of Australian golf’s major organisational bodies launched “Golf WEEK” to showcase the game of golf to the broader public, with an aim to grow the game and attract new players.

The initiative’s success turned GOLF WEEK into GOLF MONTH throughout the month of October last year, with a variety of nation-wide activities carried out and constructed to introduce and re-introduce novice and advanced golfers back out onto the golf course and back into the game.

Experienced golfers and beginners alike can once again rediscover their drive when Golf Australia’s GOLF MONTH campaign, which has become an integral part of the organisation’s overall strategy to cultivate the game, returns to facilities all around the country in October this year.

In November 2014 more than 7,000 golfers participated in the events at facilities around the country, and recent reports from Golf Australia attest that last year’s GOLF MONTH event was another resounding success.

The initiative attracted 265 facilities to participate (35% increase from previous year) and helped gained as many as 697 new members over the campaign duration.

Figures further shows an astounding participation of 19,833 individuals (174% increase) taking part in the many wide-ranging golf activities held around the country, with assistance of the 125 PGA/ALPG members involved.

“We were delighted with the number of people who either had their first go at golf, or came back to the sport after some time away,” said Golf Australia golf development director Cameron Wade about the inaugural initiative.

“But just as importantly, the number of clubs and facilities who got on board really makes us think that we can make it even bigger and better again in 2016.

“The challenge, obviously, is for us to convert all this new interest into club and facility memberships. But with all the offers and promotions that were put on the table, we’re hopeful that the clubs and facilities will continue to have a membership influx as a result of the campaign.”

The facilities involved in last year’s campaign included indoor simulators, driving ranges and 9/18 hole facilities and community events, with more than 20 different activities including clinics, open days, twilight and even night golf.

With support from the PGA and ALPG, new and more unconventional golf formats were also introduced including Foot Golf, Speed Golf, Big Hole Golf and Empower Golf, which were all enjoyed by the many partakers.

The campaign also introduced Australia’s female participation program – Swing Fit, which turned out to be of great interest and acclaim by the many female attendees.

Whether you are an experienced golfer or a beginner just wanting to give golf a try, you can attend a GOLF MONTH activity near you during the month of October 2016!