SLGCC provides update on golf course, memberships

Jesse Bonello  - Staff Writer

In a statement on April 24, Sioux Lookout Golf and Curling Club’s (SLGCC) Board of Directors provided an update regarding the opening of the course as well as membership availability.
“We are proceeding with the usual preparation of the course. The course will remain closed as per Ontario government restrictions. All depends on public health recommendations when and how the (course) opening will happen. (We are) anticipating a later start to the golf season but, again, there’s so many unknowns,” the statement read.
“Even though we have hired staff to get the course and equipment ready to go, no one will be allowed on the course until we are officially open. Otherwise we will be under scrutiny and possible fines as well as those people going onto the course while it’s closed will be considered trespassing. If anyone is on the course during this closure, the OPP will be notified and a fine will be issued. We are really hoping golf will somehow happen this season, even with new precautions and recommendations.
“Also in regard to golf memberships, the Board of Directors is working on how to proceed. Golfers will be notified as soon as it's possible,” the statement continued.
The SLGCC further announced their current closure in a Facebook post (@SiouxLookoutGolf
andCurlingClub)
on April 26.
“As per order of the provincial government, the golf course is officially CLOSED. The course is currently being prepared however the Board of Directors cannot predict when it will be open. Anyone who enters onto the course at this time will be considered as trespassing and will face being fined. Please respect the situation we are in at this time. As soon as we know what the golf season will look like we will announce. Thanks!” the Facebook post read.
In a news release on April 23, the Government of Ontario extended emergency orders until May 6 to further stop the spread of COVID-19, which includes the closure of outdoor amenities in parks and recreational areas.
“On the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, the Ontario government is extending all emergency orders that have been put in place to-date under s.7.0.2 (4) of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act until May 6, 2020. This extension will help protect the health and well-being of people across the province and stop the spread of COVID-19,” the release states.
“This Emergency Order extension includes the closure of outdoor amenities in parks and recreational areas, non-essential workplaces, public places and bars and restaurants, along with restrictions on social gatherings and limiting staff from working in more than one retirement home or long-term care home.”