Just as the Twenty20 format has been used to spark up cricket and attract a new generation of fans, night golf events aim to dispel the exclusivity that often forms people’s perceptions of golf.

Newcomers can expect relaxed rules, drinks on the course, glowsticks and an everyone-welcome social atmosphere.

Illawarra professional golfer Brad McIntosh, who runs Light It Up Golf, has held night golf events around NSW, motivated by a desire to rejuvenate interest in the game he loves.

‘‘I’ve seen a constant decline over a number of years on all courses, with memberships declining and no new members coming in,’’ he said.

‘‘The whole idea is to grow golf at a grassroots level - with kids growing up, and time-poor people, a lot of people [who] don’t have time to play golf.’’

McIntosh has developed a special LED-lit ball, which is activated when it is hit, and stays alight for 11 minutes. The light is activated again next time it is hit.

Glowsticks are used to light up the course, rules about the lie of the ball are relaxed, and a social atmosphere is emphasised - helping make the sport more accessible. And of course, no dress code - aside from an occasional fancy-dress theme night.

The game is played over nine holes using the Ambrose format, where all players in a group tee off, the best shot is selected, and all players take their next shot from where the best shot lies.

‘‘We’ve seen a number of people playing our events who don’t normally play golf,’’ McIntosh said.

‘‘The feedback’s been amazing. They don’t actually have to be able to play golf to enjoy the game.’’

The night golf event is at the Wollongong Golf Club on Friday at 6.30pm. Costs is $55 per person, which includes some food and drink.