Page 25 - Landscape-Issue139

GOLF AND TURF FEATURE

TGMA GAUTENG

The Turf Grass Managers Association of Gauteng (TGMA), formerly known as the
Golf Course Managers and Green Keepers Association of Southern Africa (GCMGA),
comprises dedicated greenkeepers, turf staff and professionals from various clubs
and turf companies. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining and enhancing turf-related

courses across Gauteng and bridging the gap between clubhouse and course.

he TGMA emerged over 30 years
ago when turf grass managers
Trecognised the need for a platform to
connect, share knowledge and collaborate
on the maintenance and upkeep of golf
courses and recreational turf areas. Their
vision was to foster a community where
expertise could flourish, leading to better
turf management practices. Through
knowledge sharing, younger individuals in
the industry could gain valuable skills and
insight, while more experienced individuals
could leave the industry in a better state
than they found it.
The TGMA emerged as a response to the
challenges faced by turf professionals. They
envisioned a community where expertise
could flourish, where knowledge could be
pooled, and where innovation could thrive.
The TGMA became the bridge that Advocacy and representation solving, and innovation. When greenkeepers
connected professionals across Gauteng. The TGMA advocates for the interests of face challenges, the TGMA ensures they’re not
Through regular meetings, workshops and turf grass managers at various levels. By alone; a community of experts stands ready
conferences, turf grass managers found collaborating with government bodies, to offer insights and solutions. By advocating
a platform to connect, share insights and industry stakeholders and other associations, for better resources, training opportunities
collaborate on a variety of topics such the TGMA ensures that the concerns and and industry standards, it champions their
as pest control, irrigation or sustainable needs of its members are heard. Whether it’s interests.
practices. lobbying for better resources or addressing The TGMA remains committed to
One of the TGMA’s core beliefs is that regulatory challenges, it stands as a united fostering excellence in turf management. As
knowledge should be passed down. voice for turf professionals. greenkeepers and turf staff continue to shape
Younger individuals entering the industry our landscapes, the TGMA stands as their
benefit immensely from the collective Training and professional ally, providing resources, connections and a
wisdom of seasoned professionals. By development shared passion for healthy, thriving turf.
sharing best practices, trouble-shooting The TGMA invests in its members’ growth by
challenges, and discussing emerging organising training sessions, workshops and Information provided by the TGMA and CMASA.
trends, the TGMA ensures that the next certification programs. From technical skills to Photo: Pixabay
generation gains valuable skills and insight. leadership development, these opportunities
Experienced turf managers also play a enhance the expertise of greenkeepers
pivotal role. Their accumulated knowledge, and turf staff. It believes that well-trained
lessons learned, and innovative approaches professionals contribute to healthier, more
contribute to the industry’s growth. vibrant turf environments.
Services and offerings Dedication to excellence
Networking and knowledge The TGMA’s dedication to turf management
exchange excellence embodies a collective passion—a
The TGMA facilitates networking fervour shared by greenkeepers, course
opportunities through regular meetings, managers and turf professionals alike. This
workshops and conferences. Members can passion fuels their tireless efforts to maintain
connect with peers, exchange insights, and and enhance our landscapes.
stay updated on industry trends. It provides The TGMA stands as a steadfast ally for
a supportive environment for learning and those who tend to our greens. It provides
growth. essential resources - technical manuals,
research findings and practical guidelines
Information dissemination - that empower greenkeepers to make
Keeping members informed is a top priority informed decisions. The TGMA fosters
for the TGMA. The association shares connections - between colleagues, across
relevant news, research findings and best clubs and beyond borders. These networks
practices related to turf management. facilitate knowledge exchange, problem- n

Check us out www.salandscape.co.za Landscape SA • Issue 139 2024 23