MUSWELLBROOK RSL Golf Club pro Jason Taylor has welcomed the new rules, which will allow the game to provide much-needed relaxation in a time of crisis.
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Golf Australia (GA) communicated the local regulation options to the nation's 1500 clubs this week and is in daily contact with Federal Minister for Sport Richard Colbeck's office to interpret changing government guidelines.
Those strategies surround flagsticks, lids on the hole, no rakes in bunkers, only one person per buggy and marking your own scorecard.
It also means golf is one of the last sports able to provide a few hours of open-air sanctuary from the coronavirus (COVID-19) worries affecting the world.
And, that's pleased Taylor.
"We'd already implemented some temporary restrictions, like reducing the size of playing groups, no touching the flagsticks, and cancelling competitions," he said.
"So, we've had measures in place to keep people safe.
"While we can operate, we will.
"Or, until we're told otherwise.
"I think the government will probably have the final say on that.
"But, players should make the most of it while they're able to.
"It's fairly quiet at the moment, which is usually the case after we've renovated the greens."
GA's acting chief executive Rob Armour admitted the mental health benefits of the sport were an inspiration to keep courses open.
He added the governing body was also publishing daily updates for clubs on its website.
"Golf is a fantastic way for Australians to get out and exercise and keep their minds active during a tough time for this country," Armour said.
"The game can be played within the regulations the government has implemented to curb the virus.
"Our priority right now is to provide clarity on the announcements for clubs to help them operate within those parameters and advise them on additional precautions they can take"
There are significant changes to ensure safety.
Golf clubhouses have been shut and social distancing rules mean golfers must remain 1.5 metres apart.
"We are working tirelessly with governments working to promote golf and the benefits of the game in terms of mental health through this period of social distancing," Armour said.
"Golf is unique in that it is able to continue where most sports have shut down.
"Our goal is to provide a healthy environment but we also want to show golf is a safe way for people to engage and exercise in the open air."
