Can you share a bit of your background and how it led you to this role at Durban Country Club?

I began my career in Rustenburg in 1990, partnering with [husband] Kevin to open our golf shop at Rustenburg Golf Club, where I managed all golf operations. I then spent a few years in the marketing department at Delta Motor Corporation before rejoining Kevin at Centurion Country Club, focusing on marketing and events.

In 2008, Kevin and I were invited to establish what was then Gardener Ross, now The Els Club at Copperleaf. After a decade there, I was headhunted for the role of CEO at Mount Edgecombe Country Club. During my tenure, I was approached to oversee both the estates (comprising 1 200 homes) and the country club, where I remained for another 10 years. In March 2024, I was honoured to be approached by Durban Country Club to serve as the general manager of their newly revamped golf course, and I am excited about the opportunities ahead.

What is your vision for the future of the club?

It is to position Durban Country Club among the top three golf courses in South Africa and to return to the top 100 in the world. This is a journey we are embarking on, and while it may take time, I am enjoying the process and am confident that we will achieve our goals. My dream and mission are to restore Durban Country Club to its rightful place on the global stage.

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How are you managing to balance tradition with innovation at the club?

This is undoubtedly one of our greatest challenges – not just for Durban Country Club, but also for clubs everywhere. We must honour the traditions and significance of the game while avoiding an overly conservative approach. It is essential to respect the game, the club and our members, which naturally entails adherence to rules and etiquette.

What do you think are the best ways to enhance the member experience?

Staff and caddie training are crucial components for this. Golfers spend over four hours with their caddies, which makes it imperative for caddies to receive proper training. A warm, welcoming smile at the gate also sets the tone for every member's day. Our golf operations team excels at this, and it's vital that we maintain consistency in our approach. Continuous training is essential for ongoing improvement. Eddie Taylor joined us recently as golf operations manager, and this will be one of his focus areas. I am proud to say he has already made a significant impact, but as I mentioned, this is a journey we are on together.

What fresh ideas or programmes have you introduced to the club?

At this stage, I have focused primarily on tidying up and refreshing our facilities. My priority is addressing what is broken and giving much-needed care to areas that require attention. A building that is over 100 years old certainly needs love and special touches! I feel we have made substantial progress, and the clubhouse is starting to shine while still retaining its traditional character. We have also reintroduced Sunday lunches, along with our famous Durban Country Club pies!

How do you see the club’s role in the local community?

Our golf course maintenance team at MatkoTurf employs a significant number of local residents, which contributes to the economic well-being of our community. We are committed to fostering strong relationships with local organisations and providing opportunities for community engagement. The club aspires to be a cornerstone of the community, promoting not only golf but also wellness, inclusivity and collaboration.

What are you most looking forward to at the club in 2025?

We are really looking forward to hosting the South African Open for the 18th time! I think this event will not only be good for Durban Country Club, but will also showcase Durban to the rest of the world. As you know, we have had a rough time with floods and riots – it is our time to shine!

IMAGES: ERNEST BLIGNAULT/GOLFRSA/SUPPLIED/DURBAN COUNTRY CLUB