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Australian Open Course Quality Officials Programme

Each year superintendents, ground staff, and turf managers gather at the Australian Open as volunteers in the AGCSA’s Course Quality Officials (CQO) programme. CQO’s work inside “the ropes” to assist in the ongoing maintenance of the tournament course and are specifically responsible for bunker raking and divot repairs as players move through their rounds.

The CQO programme provides a fantastic learning opportunity for all levels of practitioners in the turf industry to see what is involved in maintaining a premier golf course during such an intensive and high profile event. It also provides the opportunity to offer some well appreciated support to the course superintendent and their grounds staff.

What is Involved

The CQO programme runs for the duration of the four-day tournament, but CQO’s may elect to work for one, two, three or all four days. All CQO’s are kitted out with an official Australian Open uniform, a polo shirt, hat, and wet weather gear, as well as provided with sun screen, water, and lunch.

How to Get Involved

The Australian Open is generally held in November of each year with AGCSA seeking volunteers to register as CQO’s from August onwards. If you wish to participate for the 2007 Australian Open as a CQO, enter your details on the registration form that will be available from this web page from August 2007.

For more information about the CQO Program contact Jeff Johnson on 03 9548 8600 or email jeff@agcsa.com.au.

Simplot Supports the CQO Programme

Simplot ProLine is a proud sponsor of the CQO program and recognises that the preparation required to bring a course up to championship quality takes expertise and enthusiasm, similar to the staff and support team found at Simplot ProLine. Simplot ProLine along with the AGCSA encourages all turf managers to be part of this exciting program. To find out more about Simplot ProLine’s products and services, visit their website http://www.simplot.com/turf/index.cfm

Some snapshots of the CQO's at work at Moonah Links