In an extraordinary general meeting on Monday night, the board was unanimously given the all clear by members to explore the possibility of amalgamation with other clubs.

President Peter Doyle, Treasurer Ian Lumsden and Secretary Jan Bluett addressed a large contingent, stressing the club’s dour situation, including the need to explore the options for future viability.

In 2006, Yass Golf Club Limited recorded a whopping $140,298 loss. Since then, membership fees have increased, wages have been cut where possible and volunteer work has swelled. Despite the goodwill and best efforts of members, the Yass Golf Club’s future remains uncertain.

Concerned members suggested ideas including further increases to fees, voluntary roster work, regular fund raising functions, drafting a risk management business plan and possible Council assistance regarding a large multi-sporting complex.

“If we don’t find $60,000 in the next 12 months, we’ll be bankrupt,” Treasurer Ian Lumsden said. “Unless anyone can think of any brilliant economic ideas, we need to explore the possibility of amalgamation to survive.”

President Peter Doyle reiterated Mr Lumsden’s thoughts. “Maybe we don’t have a club open seven days a week like we do now. Maybe we don’t have as many employees. Maybe we run the club on a voluntary basis.

“If worse comes to worse, we’ll still have a course. We just might not have the wonderful facilities we have now. What ever happens, we’re [the board] hell bent on saving the course.”

Mr Doyle was pleased with the strong turnout and kindness shown by members. “It was a very successful meeting, probably the largest to a general public meeting for some years.

“The suggestions that came forward indicate there’s plenty of goodwill in the club and a great desire to maintain our beautiful course.”

Figures from the 2008/09 budget predict the club will lose $21,926 in the next financial year, as income figures fail to match expenditure costs. A further $41,000 is owed to Yass Valley Council, meaning the club is already $63,000 in arrears.