Goring & Streatley winners of Syngenta Operation Pollinator Award
Goring & Streatley Golf Club in Berkshire has won the prestigious title of Syngenta Operation Pollinator Award winners, presented to Deputy Course Manager and Ecology Manager, Melissa Winkworth; pictured with G&S Senior Greenkeeper, Steve Chandler, and Sarah Hughes, Syngenta Business Manager for UK & Ireland.
The Syngenta Operation Pollinator Award is made as part of the Golf Environment Awards, managed and presented by the STRI during BTME in Harrogate this week (22 January 2025). It is awarded to golf clubs who consistently deliver outstanding ecological habitat creation and management.
Goring & Streatley Club Captain, Steve Bennett (pictured above with Mel at BTME and the GEA awards), has been so inspired by the team's efforts and successes in developing the club's ecology and pollinator habitat creation, alongside the highly acclaimed playing quality, that he's bought Mel another hive and queen bee to further enhance members' engagement with the initiatives.
Applications for this years GEA's reached record highs, bringing together golf clubs from across the country, and overseas, to share experiences, celebrate and reward industry professionals who dedicate their time and energy to protecting and enhancing the environment.
STRI ecology specialist, Stella Rixon, highlights many golf courses are achieving an increase in habitat varieties, improving playing experiences for golfers, and having a positive impact on the communities in which their members live and work.
“The GEAs showcase the innovation and extraordinary heights golf courses are reaching to protect and enhance the natural environment. It is inspiring to see the hard work and tangible results from their projects.”
Other Awards presented include:
Conservation Champion of the YearOutstanding individuals who make significant contributions to the success of environmental and ecological management making a positive impact on the surrounding landscape and biodiversity. Andy Reason, North Hants Golf Club |
Sustainable Project of the YearGolf clubs who have implemented a successful sustainable project with clear objectives and targets that contribute to a more sustainable environment. Bowring Park and Golf Course |
UK Environmental Golf Course of the YearGolf clubs in the UK that are leading the way in sustainability across nature conservation, turfgrass management and waste and water management. Royal Mid-Surrey Golf Club |
Ecological Project of the YearFor golf clubs who have implemented a successful ecological project, with clear objectives and targets that contribute to a better environment. Formby Ladies Golf Club |
International Environmental Golf CourseGolf clubs outside of the UK that brilliantly demonstrate efficient management across nature conservation, turfgrass, waste and water. Camiral Golf & Wellness, Spain |
