1. GDGA Position on Amalgamation

2. The GDGA has indicated to Golf Victoria that it favours amalgamation with SWDLGA and has made several attempts to initiate discussions with that organisation, without a great deal of success. 2

3. It is apparent, given the amount of support the concept received during the recent review conducted by Golf Victoria, (only 14% opposed) that the vast majority of golfers support amalgamation. 3

4. That Amalgamation has already taken place in Sunraysia and Ballarat, and is in process in a number of other districts would seem to support this view. 4

5. The GDGA believes that unless amalgamation is achieved in this area soon, there is a real danger of Geelong being left behind and the game suffering as a result. 5

6. The GDGA has initiated discussions with Colac, Birregurra, Beeac and Apollo Bay clubs, with a view to aligning the district consistent with the current women’s model. 6

7. 7 The GDGA believes that amalgamation of the Geelong District Golf Association and the South Western District Ladies Golf Association has the potential to bring a number of benefits -

8. 8 Greater efficiency in district administration – “one game, one controlling body.”  Improved communication between the men and women – “set standard for clubs to follow.” 

9. 9 Better and more effective access to government and local government bodies – “stronger position when lobbying, negotiating resources.”  Greater cohesion in golf clubs in this area. 

10. 10 Amalgamation will mean more streamlined communication from GV to the districts and thereby to the clubs. 

11. 11 Utilisation of a larger base of skills and knowledge – utilise the best practices of both bodies to create a more effective organisation. 

12. 12 Greater and more effective investment in junior development – avoid duplication and create a more consistent approach.  Better and more effective programs to introduce new people to the game. 

13. 13 Decrease the number of volunteers required to sit on the district executive – make more effective use of sub committees.  Improved funding opportunities for golf promotion and development at district and regional level. 

14. 14 Less confusion for golfers – “all play the same game using the same rules.” 

15. 15 One website providing information and resources to clubs and individuals – “provide something that is better resourced and more professional that would encourage both old and new and even non golfers to access.” 

16. 16 Coordination and rationalisation of district events would mean a less crowded golfing calendar.  Opportunity to improve Country Week, District Teams and Junior Teams by making better use of resources. 

17. 17 Improved promotion of, and participation in tournaments, events, fundraisers etc. 

18. The GDGA requests that all club committees/boards consider this position statement and trusts that they will support the contention that an amalgamated body has the potential to produce many benefits for the game in this area. 18

19. With the Victorian Open being held in the region for the next few years, there is a wonderful opportunity to promote and grow the game but it requires a coordinated effort from all associated with the organisation and management of golf, not least the executive members of the men’s and women’s districts. 19

20. Given that both the GDGA and SWDLGA operate at the behest of the member clubs, the clubs should demonstrate their support by writing to both bodies as soon as possible, instructing them to commence an amalgamation process immediately and establish a timeline, eg twelve months, whereby a single entity is created to oversee and grow the game in this district. In addition club delegates should be instructed to present their clubs view at the earliest opportunity to reinforce the need for haste in pursuing the amalgamation objective. 20

21. “With few, if any, sports at state level with male and female districts or regions – and with governments at federal, state and local levels reviewing their investment in sports based on modern governance and best practices, there is little argument for a sport to be made up of male and female bodies at a regional level. ” Golf Victoria - Governance and Structural Review – Final Report and Recommendations – November 2012.” 21