GSM – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who are GSM, the new operators of the course?
GSM is a highly experienced golf course management company operating five golf courses in Victoria – Bay Views, Kingston Links, Ranfurlie, St Andrews Beach and Morack Golf Course and Driving Range. These courses provide the option for regular players to purchase seasonal and yearly passes available that provide great value.
 
2. Under what type of arrangement is GSM operating the golf course?
GSM has procured a commercial lease consisting of a 5-year term and 5-year option. Under the terms and conditions of the lease they are responsible for all decision making in relation to the business model that the course and clubhouse operate. GSM retains full financial liability and thus receive all revenues and conversely pay all operating expenditures.

3. What is the most likely timeframe for the course to re-open for play?
Subject to several factors GSM are hoping to have the course open between December 8 and 15. Details will be published in the coming weeks on www.peregiangolf.com.au which is currently under construction.

4. What will happen with Peregian Springs Golf club and the golflink numbers?
Peregian Golf Club is now established and replaces the previous Peregian Springs Golf Club. Membership is only $129 and provides affiliation to Golf Queensland and the local Districts, a golflink handicap and personal and public liability insurances. Golf Australia and the local District representatives have been very helpful and have organised that existing golflink numbers have been transferred to the new club which will help simplify the process and take away the urgency of needing a new golflink card.

5. Will private memberships be available?
No. Membership as described in Q3 will not carry with it any rights in determining the structure or operation of the venue business model.

6. Will GSM offer yearly subscriptions at the course and if so what is the likely pricing structure?
There is a selection of “playing pass” options available ranging from a totally unlimited classification to a lifestyle classification that allows for a much lower annual charge with a heavily discounted daily fee payable for each round played.

• Lifestyle Access provides unlimited access upon payment of discounted green fee each time you play
• Weekday Access provides unlimited use Monday through Friday with no additional playing fee (competition fees may apply)
• Total Access provides unlimited use with no additional playing fees (competition fees may apply)
• Peregian Golf Club provides official handicap and insurances and partner rate green fee
   

7. What is the anticipated standard of course presentation?
When you visit the GSM website you will gain an understanding as to the quality of courses that we manage. Course presentation and enjoyment determines visitation levels and increasing visitation is integral for a successful business. The course will be maintained and presented at a level that ensures future growth and financial success.

8. What sort of ratio is anticipated between pay-for-play and season pass rounds and will specific tee times be blocked for different customer groups?
To build a successful financial model it will be necessary to cater for a broad cross section of customers. The mix of season pass holders and pay for play golfers will be determined by demand, however the number of season passes on offer will be balanced to ensure this customer group can be provided some privileges in reward of their frequency of visitation. GSM value our customers and we take pride in achieving a high level of customer satisfaction.

9. Many residents own their own carts will GSM allow these to be used on the course and if so will there be a daily/annual trail fee?
There is a private cart access fee available at a cost of $320 and is subject to the usual insurance and mechanical checks

10. Will residents be able to start play from access points out on the course?
No. All players will be required to check in prior to teeing off with all play to commence from either the first or tenth tees to ensure everyone has an enjoyable round under the control of the Golf Operations team.

11. Do GSM anticipate running daily competitions and honour board events?
Daily competitions will be run on a regular basis dependent on demand and after the initial opening is expected to be on several days of the week.. This area of operation will be constantly reviewed and reassessed as the uptake on club membership and season passes becomes evident.

12. What are GSM’s plans for the clubhouse?
GSM has the priority to establish a strong primary business of golf and presenting a quality playing surface to our customers. Importantly golfers expect a level of Food and Beverage service and GSM will ensure that golfers are provided an ambient facility in which to enjoy a pre-game or post-game snack and a drink. One of the hurdles GSM face is an empty clubhouse with no amenities with the further burden of an expired liquor license requiring a new application that may take some months. Once the liquor license is established GSM will then assess as to what is the best business model for the clubhouse and catering moving forward.

13. Do GSM expect to allow residents to participate in an advisory capacity as a committee/board to help operate the club?
GSM value close working relationships with our key playing groups. In the negotiation stages of securing the Lease we have already dealt with a contingent of former members who have been very helpful and we will continue to have open discussions moving forward.

14. Is it correct that the name is changing?
Yes. The venue is now called Peregian Golf Course.

15. What other notable changes are we likely to see?
There will be different elements to the business model given it is no longer a member based club, structured primarily for private use. Most notably GSM see the practice range as a key driver to attract people to the venue and then in the immediate term onto the golf course, and in the longer term regular golfers. There will not be the traditional dress regulations of a private club as we encourage a welcoming approach to all potential golfers.
Driving new business is crucial for the venues sustainability and although change is at times difficult to accept. GSM’s motivation is to be able to sustain a continual improvement to our customer service levels.