SOUTH-WEST regional golfers and bowlers can maintain their touch if they choose to practice during the coronavirus.
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Many sporting businesses in the region were forced to close their doors on Monday due to stricter mandates from the federal and state governments to help combat the pandemic.
But, given golf and bowls are played in outdoor arenas, players can hit the greens if they adhere to the social distancing requirements.
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Warrnambool Bowls Club bowls manager Paul O'Donnell said while the Timor Street club would be closed to the public, members could go for a roll with "strict guidelines".
"They can practice as long as social distancing rules are upheld," he said.
"That's about all we can do. There's no organised events.
"You get people here everyday (usually) just having a roll and we've already had inquiries this morning as to 'can we still practice?'
"I suppose it's a bit a of a stress relief to get out there and do that."
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Timboon Bowls Club secretary Barry Bowen said its players were in a similar position with the bar closed.
"As our membership all has access to the clubrooms, being a small club we all have access to that, so I can't see a problem with having a roll-up if people follow the advice given by the health department," he said.
"We're advising people having a roll-up to use their own equipment and not share club equipment, so use their own jacks and mats. All the club equipment will be inside."
Port Fairy Golf Links professional Anthony Warburton said the club had shut its clubrooms but the course remained open.
"We're still allowing people to go out and play on the course," he said.
"We had 42 out there on Monday morning but we're encouraging (social distancing and hygiene).
"Players won't be having a drink after their rounds in the clubhouse though - they'll be basically dropping scorecards in and heading off."
A Warrnambool Golf Club statement said it had temporarily closed its course to non-members as it awaited government and Golf Australia clarification on several questions.
It hoped to have more definitive information by close of business on Monday.
MORE TO COME
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