Big changes, big results
Jason Lowe is managing Arbutus Ridge Golf Club during an exciting time
Arbutus Ridge has a slope of 123 —Photo courtesy of Jason Lowe
In areas rich with golfing opportunities, such as Vancouver Island, it is important for a club to differentiate and stand out from the pack. Arbutus Ridge Golf Club, located in Cobble Hill, has been doing just that, undergoing a number of improvements in 2009 and planning more for 2010. The competition may be fierce but Arbutus Ridge is keeping its competitive edge sharp. h3. The goods and the greens “The most noticeable change is the 18-foot fountain that we’re putting on Hole 18,” said Jason Lowe, the general manager at Arbutus Ridge. “It’s such a high exposure spot—you’ll be able to see it from the Sunlight Bar and Grille that we have in the clubhouse. When guests putt out, it’ll leave a lasting impression and a feeling of tranquility. It has the wow factor.” The wow factor is present in many of the club’s improvements. From the 52 new trees and greenery that have been planted, to the rebuilt tee houses and new cart pathways, the changes that are happening at Arbutus Ridge are noticeably adding to a visitor’s experience. The club’s members agree. A guest survey indicated that 2009 was Arbutus Ridge’s best year yet and there has been an increase in member referrals. “Obviously these improvements are working,” said Lowe. “Members are proud to bring guests and are happy with the general friendliness and down-to-earth staff,” said Lowe. h3. Chopping down the carbon output Another thing the club has been focussing on is being eco-friendly, something Lowe said is a personal passion of his. Arbutus Ridge has the distinction of being one of only five clubs in Canada that has had a full carbon footprint work-up, and is now working on becoming carbon-neutral. Guests will notice bird houses and bee hives around the property, and Lowe said that the ecosystems found on the course have been catalogued to ensure preservation. High-efficiency light bulbs are replacing fluorescent ones, and alternative energy sources are being investigated. “It’s a feel-good moment for the people working here,” said Lowe. “It aligns with their values and beliefs, and our guests are going to expect it more and more in the future. It’s the right thing to do long term.”
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