Club Corowa CEO Peter Norris said the board unanimously endorsed the acquisition of two parcels of high-security water in response to the significant cash flow challenges currently being experienced by Corowa Golf Club.
“Access to reliable water is essential for the ongoing operation and irrigation of the golf course,” Mr Norris said.
“Without it, the course simply cannot be maintained to a standard that serves members, visitors and the wider community.
“This investment allows Club Corowa to provide water under a temporary access arrangement, ensuring continuity while future options for Corowa Golf Club are considered.”
Corowa Golf Club general manager Ashley Boyd said the purchase of two allocations of water by Club Corowa represented a significant cash injection towards the club’s recovery as they transition to a reduced operational capacity.
“A golf course without water isn’t much of a golf course,” Mr Boyd said.
“We have two sources of water here; we have the river water, which is what the Club Corowa venture is seeking allotments of, and we also have a bore.
“The bore water is useless to anyone except the golf club, because you have to be physically there to use it.
“There is enough water in our bore to maintain the course in most years, unless there’s a drought.
“We can also buy temporary or permanent water as required, depending on what’s happening and this is where Club Corowa’s purchase of our water parcels comes in to help us out.”
Mr Norris emphasised that the decision reflected the board’s commitment to responsible community leadership and the preservation of key recreational infrastructure in Corowa.
“The golf course is an important recreational, social and tourism asset for our region,” he said.
“Supporting its immediate operational needs is a practical and measured step that protects a facility which delivers significant value to our community.”
He also acknowledged the collaborative efforts that helped progress the outcome.
“I would like to sincerely acknowledge Ashley Boyd and Richard Sargood for their assistance in helping broker these negotiations and working constructively towards a solution.”
Mr Norris said the unanimous board decision demonstrated Club Corowa’s willingness to act decisively in the best interests of the community.
“This is a substantial investment, but one the board supported without hesitation,” he said.
“It reflects our strong belief in backing important community assets and ensuring they remain accessible and viable for current and future generations.”