Torgersen Gilbey discuss how golf courses can work as ecological sanctuaries and community assets

GOLFING GREEN friend, Karen Harding, runs the award winning Tee for Two podcast, in which she talks to women from all aspects of golf.  In this episode, Karen talked to Kate Torgersen and Monina Gilbey.

Environmental Sustainability in Golf with Kate Torgersen and Monina Gilbey

Golf courses are often misunderstood as environmental liabilities, but Kate Torgersen and Monina Gilbey are redefining that narrative. Through their business, Torgersen Gilbey, they are championing sustainability and biodiversity in the golf industry. Their recent appearance on the "Tea for Two" podcast highlighted key ways golf courses can serve as ecological sanctuaries and community assets.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Power of Golf in Sustainability
   Golf courses occupy vast landscapes, and nearly 50% of these spaces are non-play areas, ideal for biodiversity projects. They can support pollinators, create habitats for flora and fauna, and contribute to urban cooling, especially critical in densely populated areas.
2. Collaborative Initiatives
   At Glenelg Golf Club in Adelaide, efforts include habitat connectivity with other clubs, planting indigenous species and working with a local indigenous elder. The rare Sandhill Orchid from Grange Golf Club is being translocated to increase numbers and protect the species for the future.  These collaborations foster community involvement and environmental resilience.
3. Biodiversity in Action
   Surveys at Glenelg revealed over 300 species of insects and increasing numbers of native birds like the superb fairy-wren. Such findings underscore golf courses' potential as biodiversity hotspots.
4. Community Engagement
   Programs like planting days and wild food dinners integrate local communities. For instance, Woodend Golf Club held a planting day with 80% of participants being non golfers who neighbour the course. Glenelg’s dinner showcased native ingredients sourced from the course, emphasizing sustainability.
5. Educational Opportunities
   Both women envision golf courses as outdoor classrooms, educating children and adults on environmental stewardship while potentially introducing them to the sport.
6. The Business of Sustainability
   Torgersen Gilbey offers services like vegetation management plans, plant sourcing, and educational programming to help clubs adopt sustainable practices. Their goal is to build partnerships and provide accessible solutions, even for budget-strapped clubs.
7. Tools and Recognition
   Encouraging golf clubs to contribute to the Golf Fore Nature project through the international platform,Initiatives like international platform, iNaturalist, enables clubs to document and promote biodiversity. Recognition through awards and an upcoming interview to be aired on Australian national television  validates their efforts and motivates further work in spreading awareness.

Why It Matters:

As urban areas expand and environmental challenges grow, golf courses can serve as vital green spaces for biodiversity and climate resilience. With leaders like Torgersen and Gilbey, the industry is poised to showcase how sport and nature can coexist harmoniously.

This discussion not only reframes golf’s role in environmental sustainability but also inspires broader community involvement.