Trentham introduced the competition credits system in 2020 as a response to Covid-19 lockdowns. Along with the usage of timesheets, it was designed to eliminate cash payments, and to allow players to compete in competitions even when the clubhouse was closed. In fact, because of the non-contact and social distancing nature of the system, the club was permitted by the Victorian Department of Health to conduct "virtual" competitions even when other sporting competitions were banned across Victoria.

The competition system has been so successful, popular and administratively useful that it will continue as a standard feature of club competition organisation.

The advantages of the credits system are:

• Members can book into competitions at a wide variety of start times from early morning until 12.30pm. The previous limits were removed.
• Members don't need to bring cash every week
• The need for someone volunteering on the starter's desk is removed.
• Cash deposits at the bank are eliminated.
• Administration of the system is easier, without difficult and time-consuming reconciliations.

Participating in the system is easy. Paypal or credit cards are used to buy credits online. Members pre-purchase credits for play, and every time they play in a competition one credit is deducted from their balance (three credits for Access members). When their balance reaches zero, they receive an automated reminder e-mail to buy more.

Please remember when using the "Buy credits" form, to enter your full 10-digit GolfLink number. Hit the "Tab" key after number entry and your name and current credits will appear in the next fields (see image). If you don't do this, your purchase may not work. Then you can go on to purchasing more credits to top up your balance.