Spending 20 years in the telecommunications industry isn’t the typical career path to greenkeeping.
But, Susie Rawlings hasn’t looked back since making the switch.
The former telco field technician is still green to the trade, having completed a horticulture qualification and starting her role at Toronto Golf Club only 12 months ago.
“I decided I needed to pursue a career I’d really enjoy, rather than one I was just comfortable in,” Susie said.
“It’s been quite a change, and apart from the 4am starts, I’m loving it.
“The club lets me do a lot of different things on the course, including irrigation and construction jobs, as well as greenkeeping duties.
“It’s very task-oriented, which gives me satisfaction when I can look back and observe a job well done.
“I love interacting with the golfers while I’m on the job. too – they’re always up for a friendly wave or a chat.”
Susie was recently a participant in the prestigious John Deere Women in Turf Program, which took place at the Cobram Baroonga Golf Club.
She, and several female volunteer greenkeepers, worked alongside club superintendent Terry Vogel and his team for a high-profile PGA event, the Webex Players Series Murray River tournament.
“It was a great experience,” she said.
“To meet other volunteers and learn from them.
“A couple of the guys I work with now had never had a female colleague in 15 years before I started.
“There’s plenty of women in this industry who have been very successful though.
“So, it’s important to highlight that and encourage more to join.”
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