June 9th marked two years on from the intense storm that devastated our course and the surrounding Trentham area. Local members suffered damage to their homes. And few people who sheltered in their homes that night envisaged what was happening on the course. Seventy-five large trees were blown over, fences damaged and our practice nets destroyed. The course was closed for nearly two months before it was playable again.

Looking back and two years down the track, the efforts of our greens staff, club members, visiting green keepers and contractors have achieved a wonderful outcome. While a few signs are still visible around the course in the form of a few remaining fallen trees and timber piles in the rough, and mulch piles where trees once stood, the course is fully playable and back to its best.

It's an ill wind that doesn't blow some good, and the course has improved in some areas. As examples, the 2nd and 12th greens have more sunlight and better grass health with fewer tall trees shading them from the north. The 12th hole is much better without the two large gum trees overhanging the fairway on the left hand side of the approach. The 14th hole has been opened up with fewer trees down the left side and the removal of the large eucalypt near the 15th tee. Our new and much improved practice nets are currently under construction.

Two years down the track the club would like to thank everyone who has helped either by giving time, expertise or financial contributions. It demonstrates what can be achieved by community effort and good organisation, motivated by a love of the club and the course.