A SEVEN year personal objective for Justin Austin and his greenkeeping team at Trethorne Golf Club, Launceston, is beginning to come to fruition.

Much is talked about within the industry of long-term sustainability and lowering carbon footprints. In reality though, few clubs have fully grasped the issue seriously.

Trethorne's course policy document was written in 2007 with a genuine focus on the players' environment — incorporating wildlife, new habitats, pest control, the reduction of chemicals, fertilisers and pesticides, and adoption of traditional cultural practices. This includes regular aeration of the greens and tees, and the increase of air and light flow throughout the golf course.

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.