From the CEO

It is the 11th day of August, and it is already the wettest August for decades.

Although it is not the beautiful Winter weather we had hoped for, our new world-class drainage system is performing exceptionally well, giving the Bay Course a strong foundation for the upcoming Spring.

We thank all members for your ongoing patience whilst we do everything to ensure the success of the course during its early stages of growth.

Becoming World Leaders

The excellent facilities members enjoy are maintained, presented, and curated by our team 365 days a year. It is this expertise that underpins the Royal Sydney experience, which is why we continue to invest in developing the capability of our team.

Staff training at the Club focuses on empowering people to solve problems, constantly seek improvements, and bring new ideas to Royal Sydney. To achieve this, we continue to expand our relationships with the finest clubs on earth, many recognised as Iconic Distinguished Clubs and Platinum Clubs of the World, both designations recognising excellence.

US Open Study Tour

Christian Pink, our Irrigation Technician, had the opportunity to volunteer at the 125th Open hosted at Oakmont Country Club. Oakmont was renovated by Gil Hanse before the Open and provides a wonderful link to Royal Sydney. Making the most of his time, Christian also visited 13 other courses, with highlights including;

Other Clubs on the tour included; Winged Foot Golf Club (NY), Westhampton Country Club (NY), National Golf Links of America (NY), Merion Golf Club (PA), Desert Mountain (AZ), The Los Angeles Country Club (CA), Cypress Point Club (CA), Monterey Peninsula Country Club (CA), The Olympic Club (CA).

North American Conference of Athletic Directors (NACAD)

Pat Lenard, our Northern Areas Manager, represented Royal Sydney at the NACAD in Seattle in June. The Washington Athletic Club hosted the conference with 30 Clubs in attendance, including the New York Athletic Club and The Olympic Club, Hollyburn Country Club, The Glencoe Club, The Arbutus Club and Bellevue Club.

Pat has returned with a strong network of Athletic Directors from the finest and most innovative Clubs in the world.

Private Clubs Membership Professionals (PCMP)

Gavin King & myself were hosted by the Detroit Athletic Club and had the opportunity to spend a day in LA visiting esteemed clubs such as the Jonathan Club, Los Angeles Athletic Club, and Bel Air Country Club. PCMP focuses purely on the member experience, particularly technology and engagement, and provides a forum for Clubs representatives to share both successes and lessons learned.

Following the conference, I had the opportunity to spend a day with the team at the Congressional Country Club. Beyond a round on the Blue Course, the highlight was participating in their staff induction. Royal Sydney will host their CEO, Jeffrey Kreafle, at the end of August, providing further opportunity for learning.

Emergency Response Team (ERT)

I regularly receive notes of gratitude from Members who have benefited from the service of our Emergency Response Team (ERT).

Established in 2018, the ERT comprises 18 trained employees who respond to incidents within the Club. Each week, they handle situations with speed, professionalism, and calmness. While we hope their services are never needed, members can be reassured they are ready to act. Their actions have saved lives and ensure the Club remains a safe and welcoming environment.

Car Parking Challenges

As the Club becomes busier, car parking pressures have returned. We have recently reinstated morning wardens to monitor traffic on our busiest days of Wednesday & Saturday. We have turned away non-members, but also identified some members who use the parking facilities and then leave the Club. Please be reminded that the car park is only for use when utilising the Club’s facilities.

We are exploring technology-based solutions and encourage members to consider ride-sharing or alternative transport when possible. Last Wednesday alone, 841 members visited the Club – which is fantastic to see, but a clear strain on parking. Above all, we ask for your patience with staff as they work to address this ongoing challenge.

Thank you from all of our team for your ongoing support.

Des Mulcahy
CEO
Monday 11th August 2025