John Ferguson is drawing on 46 years of greenkeeping to ensure Dapto Citizens Bowling Club is at its best as headquarters for the annual South Pacific carnival.
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The honour of being carnival headquarters presents the toughest assignment for any greenkeeper with nine playing days over the New Year period – a time traditionally when greens are renovated for the upcoming season of championship and pennants.
Throw in six months of record dry weather and preparation for the 59th carnival has been particularly challenging for Ferguson and his staff.
‘’It’s very demanding, especially this time of year and after a record dry spell, but we’ve put the hard work in,’’ Ferguson said.
“We all want to show off the club in the best possible way and while there’s been some 50-hour weeks put in, it’ll all be worth it.’’
Ferguson completed his apprenticeship at Bathurst City BC almost a half century ago and following a spell at Forbes Golf Club spent 30 years at West Dubbo BC. He’s now had eight years in the Illawarra – first with Albion Park BC and now almost four years at Dapto Citz.
Ferguson isn’t fazed by big assignments at Citos, with the club hosting the three-day NSW versus ACT Test series in 2016, plus the prestigious Grade 1 Pennant Finals that year.
And he knows the only thing worse than a bumpy green would be if the club runs out of beer. Don’t expect either to happen.
With the support of third year apprentice Blake Bailey, plus some hard-working members, the three Citos greens looked in great order for Wednesday’s opening day of Carnival Fours.
“We’re proud to be the hosts and though it’s been a big challenge, it’s a great event for the club,’’ Ferguson acknowledged.
