Since taking over turf management on July 1st, the Solutions+ team has made an immediate and massive impact on the track. By keeping things simple, staying consistent, and focusing on the details, they’ve quickly improved both the playing conditions and the community atmosphere at Riverside Golf and Sports Centre.
Meet the Leadership:
- Andrew: An industry veteran and Strathmore local who brings decades of turf expertise and a fierce commitment to taking Riverside to the next level.
- Luke: Works alongside Andrew in management to provide hands-on, on-site support for the entire operation.
- Bailey & Dillon: Out on the course every day, they lead the physical work by blending expert turf care with warm, member-first hospitality.
What’s Changing on the Track?
In just a few short weeks, the crew’s relentless focus on the fundamentals has translated into noticeable upgrades across all 9 holes:
- Pristine, Debris-Free Surfaces: By clearing leaves, twigs, and seasonal debris before the first tee times, the team ensures clean lines and remarkably smooth, true-rolling greens every morning.
- Fresh Pin Placements: Pins are rotated much more frequently to protect high-traffic areas and offer fresh challenges for our regular players.
- Respect for the Player: Course etiquette works both ways. The crew prioritizes your experience by cutting mower engines and pausing their work whenever you are preparing to take a shot.
- Warm & Welcoming Hospitality: Whether it’s a wave from the tractor or some lighthearted banter, Bailey and Dillon make sure every member feels welcome.
- Proactive Turf Health: Behind the scenes, the team is building long-term fairway resilience through consistent moisture management, targeted fertilizing, and better soil care routines.
"The continuous, consistent care being put into the track will keep elevating the course for everyone who plays it."
Meet the Team On the Tools
We caught up with Bailey (left) and Dillon (right) to get their take on Riverside's layout and what drives their work every day:
| Background | Award-winning groundsman with experience at Victorian venues like Yarrambat Park and Yering Meadows. | Passionate local with elite experience at Metropolitan Golf Club and Old Head Golf Links (Ireland). |
|---|---|---|
| Favorite Hole | The 4th: Loves the elevated views of the Maribyrnong River from the tee box. | The 9th: Loves the green setup, bunkers, and natural backdrop. |
| Current Focus | Smooth greens, controlling starweed, and overall turf health. | Sharp fairway lines and lush, level tee boxes. |
| The Vibe | Highly enthusiastic about the course’s long-term potential. | Calls Riverside an underrated “hidden gem” and loves chatting with members. |