Presented by Lawn Solutions Australia
In a rare treat for the Australian turf industry, Lawn Solutions Australia (LSA) brought together leading voices in turf science, local government, and sports turf management for two major events in September 2025 under the banner: ‘The Future of Turfgrass’. Held in South Australia and New South Wales respectively, these gatherings offered practical insights, research updates, and on-the-ground experience for turf professionals from golf clubs, local government, and turf farms.
With over 135 industry delegates attending across both events, the appetite for innovation, sustainability, and better outcomes for end users was clear and the momentum continues to build.
Glenelg Golf Club
The first event took place on September 23 at the prestigious Glenelg Golf Club in South Australia. More than 65 attendees from across the turf spectrum, including local government reps, turf producers, contractors, and agronomists, took part in a full day of learning.
The morning kicked off with a guided course tour led by superintendent Tim Warren, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the club’s turf management practices. Delegates were able to see first-hand how Glenelg’s team maintains championship-level conditions, and how newer turf varieties are performing under real-world pressures.
Inside the clubhouse, the program delivered expert insights from across the industry:
- Caine James – AusGAP, drawing from his extensive local government experience, shared practical outcomes from using TifTuf in council spaces, highlighting its drought tolerance, aesthetic performance, and maintenance advantages.
- Scott Rowe, former Open Spaces Manager for Shellharbour City Council, focused on the compelling performance of unmown Sir Grange Zoysia. His case studies demonstrated not only strong wear tolerance but major savings in mowing and maintenance, particularly for challenging or passive green spaces.
- Representing Syngenta, Michael Bradbury detailed how their suite of turf protection products, from fungicides to growth regulators, can enhance both the longevity and performance of premium turf varieties. Michael’s presentation provided clear, actionable benefits for contractors and managers aiming for the highest standards with tighter budgets.
- To round out the day, Dr. Brian Schwartz, respected turfgrass breeder and researcher from the University of Georgia, US, gave a deep dive into recent trial results on TifTuf. Dr. Schwartz’s session also included a fascinating overview of the university’s breeding program, showing how decades of genetic development are delivering tangible results for today’s turf managers.
Sports Turf in the Spotlight in Maitland
Just a week later, on September 30, the action shifted to Maitland Regional Athletics Centre in New South Wales, and again, the industry turned up in force, with over 70 local government delegates in attendance.
After a warm welcome and coffee, the group toured the facility with grounds manager Adam Niall, whose attention to detail and pride in the venue’s surface was obvious. Delegates saw the impact of well-chosen turf varieties combined with smart management, a theme carried through into the presentations.
Both events were a reminder of how important in-person industry days are, not just for learning, but for building connections and sharing knowledge across sectors. These kinds of gatherings are rare in the turf world, and Lawn Solutions Australia is proud to have provided a platform for such meaningful exchange.
Special thanks go to:
Tim Warren and the Glenelg Golf Club team, for hosting and showcasing their immaculate grounds. Adam Niall and Maitland City Council, for opening the gates to one of the region’s finest sports facilities.
Our supporting partner, Syngenta, whose expertise and ongoing commitment to the industry helped make both days a success. Plus, special thanks to Dr. Brian Schwartz travelling over from the US, whose depth of knowledge and global perspective continues to elevate the standard of turfgrass in Australia and the world.
As the turf industry continues to evolve, with pressures from climate, water restrictions, and budget constraints, it’s clear that science-backed solutions and real-world experience are more important than ever.
Events like these prove that when turf professionals come together, the future of turfgrass gets a little brighter, smarter, and a lot more sustainable.
