The plan, initiated on August 21, 2023, when Club Corowa called for expressions of interest in amalgamation, aims to create a consolidated entity that can harness the strengths of both towns.
Howlong Golf Resort responded affirmatively to Club Corowa’s call, expressing a keen interest in amalgamation, contingent upon the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding and subsequent member approval.
Supporters of the merger believe that it presents a unique opportunity for Corowa and Howlong to combine their resources, bolster community connections, and enhance the overall appeal of the region.
However, not everyone in Corowa shares this optimistic view. Some vocal members of the community, including residents John Hennemen, John Elmore and former Corowa Golf Club board member Richard Sargood, have expressed reservations about the proposal.
Mr Hennemen voiced concerns about the potential consequences of diverting resources away from Corowa.
“The resources that the Corowa residents and the Corowa visitors have accumulated are not being put back into the township,” Hennemen remarked.
“The opportunity to spend that kind of money in Corowa is desperately needed. We’re always told to shop locally. This is what it’s about.”
Former Corowa Golf Club board member Richard Sargood echoed these sentiments.
“It’s the redistribution of wealth,” he said.
“The backbone of the Corowa Golf Club has been built up locally, and now it looks like that local goodwill is going to be exported.”
Mr Hennemen also pointed the financial assistance that Howlong might require.
“They’re not going over there to be a token offer,” he said.
“They’re going there with Corowa’s money. It’s immoral to take it away from Corowa residents.”
John Elmore, highlighted significant repair works needed at Howlong Golf Resort, including a new roof and air conditioning repairs.
He proposed redirecting attention to the Corowa Golf Club, advocating for its purchase from the Crown Land Department.
Mr Elmore believes there is immense potential for the local golf club, including accommodation options, which could contribute to the community’s wellbeing.
“The big picture should be to promote Corowa,” he said.
“Howlong is patronised by Albury—that money will never come to Corowa. I see so many more opportunities that could be looked at.”
Mr Hennemen further suggested alternative areas for investment within Corowa, highlighting the need to support local initiatives.
“There are opportunities to invest in Corowa—the football club needs assistance, or the caravan park to attract tourists,” he said, drawing attention to the success of Kyabram Club, which purchased their caravan park and turned it into a thriving venture.
Mr Elmore said the potential amalgamation of the two clubs could have a detrimental impact on the investment in Corowa and stressed the importance of local golf club members, who are also members of Club Corowa to voice their opinions and vote at a meeting previously scheduled for next Wednesday at Club Corowa, now pushed out to February with a date to be advised.
“This is all for the benefit of Howlong. Do you want our money spent outside of our community?” Elmore questioned.
Club Corowa CEO Peter Norris responded to some of these comments, asking members of the community to keep their minds open.
“I find it interesting that the three individuals who have provided commentary, have all been involved in business in some way in Corowa and each have invested their own money outside of this town,” he said.
“It’s extremely contradictory and narrow-minded to suggest that a not-for-profit club has to be limited to investing only into the boundaries of Corowa, its laughable to be honest.
“All businesses in town derive benefit from outside investment, just take a look at JBS Foods investing millions into Corowa, yet these people are saying you can’t take any of these funds outside of the town?
“ Just at Club Corowa alone we welcome thousands of visitors from outside of Corowa, who bring in funds from other towns such as Mulwala, Albury, Wangaratta and further field. For Mr Sargood to suggest it’s a redistribution of wealth shows a distinct lack of understanding about the local economy and where the wealth comes from.”
Mr Norris said Club Corowa already invests heavily into the town.
“There is not another business who supports Corowa as much as we do,” he said.
“We have provided funds to Men’s Shed, She Shed, speedway, cricket, hockey, rugby, pony club, swimming clubs, and I would have thought that Mr Henneman would have been aware that we are already supporting Corowa Football Club as a major sponsor.
“The amalgamation provides a unique opportunity to strengthen two clubs in our shire, to ensure that both are sustainable for future generations.
“Majority of the commentary has been overwhelmingly positive, other than some individuals who have their own agendas that they are wrapping up to look like concern for the community.
“The lies and disinformation have been disgusting to be honest.”
In regard to the Corowa Golf Club commentary Mr Norris said Club Corowa has been extremely supportive.
“This year, Club Corowa has provided Corowa Golf Club with a $300,000 loan with very generous terms, and, have reached out to offer administrative and management support,”
“Our discussions with Corowa Golf Club continue and have been extremely positive. For Mr Elmore and others to call on golf club members to vote against the amalgamation, only fractures this relationship to perpetuate his own agenda, it provides no benefit to anyone.”
