Creating a predator-free environment at Hastings Golf Club would see a flourishing of bird life, enhancing the playing experience for all members and visitors alike.  One only needs to see the results at Wairakei Golf Club to see what is possible.

 

Accordingly, with the assistance of Predator-Free NZ and the HB Regional Council, the Club has decided to embark on this very worthwhile objective, and we seek the support of members to achieve this.

 

Rats, stoats and hedgehogs are the main threat to bird life at the course, and bait-trapping is seen as the best method for eradication.  The "DOC 200" trap is widely-used throughout NZ and is the recommended trap for our purposes.  These need to be placed at intervals of 100m around the perimeter of the course, with some targeted placement through the middle.  Approximately 50 traps are required, each costing $100.

 

We seek members to sponsor a trap.  A shared half-sponsorship of $50 would also be welcome, as would the donation by any member who has a spare trap in good working order.  Each trap will be numbered and recorded as to their location, and sponsoring members will be told where "their" particular trap is located.  Notification of "kills" will be important to see what locations are working, and for timely re-baiting.

 

Traps need to be inspected and replenished with bait once a month, so we will also be looking for member volunteers to assist with this effort.  The mostly commonly used bait is a hen egg, and a demonstration of how to set the trap will be conducted.  There are also videos online that illustrate this.

 

For all members that sponsor a trap we will be keeping a register during the year and by December if your trap has had the most "kills" you will win a dozen golf balls!  The names and placement of traps will be drawn randomly and a regular scoreboard will be published.  

 

Please get in touch with Michelle Campbell if you wish to contribute to this very worthwhile enhancement programme for our course.