CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PORTMAHOMACK (Tarbat) Golf Club (Jan 26)

At Portmahomack (Tarbat) Golf Club we believe in providing a welcoming, safe and inclusive environment for members, guests, visitors and staff.

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds and cultures and through the same collective vision, this ultimately generates a welcoming environment that is free of discrimination, harassment, bullying and intimidation for members, employees and visitors alike.

All members and visitors are reminded to behave with courtesy and respect for one another and are advised that an acceptable standard of behaviour is always expected in all areas of the Club and on the course.

On payment of a membership or green fee at Portmahomack (Tarbat) Golf Club, all members, golfers and visitors consent to be bound by both the restrictions and penalties**imposed by this code of conduct. Members shall be liable for any breach committed whether by themselves or their guests.

Courtesy, sportsmanship and the spirit of the game lie at the heart of our club’s code of conduct. 

Golf is Scotland’s game for everyone, and this code of conduct is not intended to restrict rights. We aim to ensure a respectful environment where visitors enjoy their experience, and staff feel safe at work.

** Restrictions and penalties are at the committee’s discretion and will include verbal, written, suspension and exclusion penalties as decided under the Club’s Committee review and final decision

Portmahomack (Tarbat) Golf Club has adopted the following code of conduct as a Local Rule.

• That any form of discrimination, harassment, verbal abuse or intimidation is regarded as unacceptable behaviour.
• To respect the course, clubhouse, fellow golfers, club employees, volunteers, and visitors.
• To display a high standard of personal behaviour.
• Follow all Health & Safety protocols, byelaws, and on-course guidance/signage.
• To refrain from negative social media activity in relation to the club or individuals that choose to play or work at the club. 
• That the use of foul, abusive or offensive language has no place at Portmahomack (Tarbat) Golf Club and persistent use of such may result in potential penalties.
• That consumption of illegal substances will incur immediate suspension and cancellation of membership.

• Be aware of their immediate environment and pay attention to fellow golfers, greens staff and members of the public who may be endangered by a practice swing or a stray shot.
• Show courtesy by waiting until players in the group ahead are out of range before playing a shot.
• Raise the traditional cry of ‘Fore!’ in the event of an errant shot straying towards another golfer/staff member/member of public.
• Try to avoid slow play, while trying to maintain the speed of play by keeping up with the group in front. Apply ‘Ready Golf’ principles to optimise enjoyment of the round.
• Allow other golfers and groups to play through as appropriate, inviting the group behind through when searching for lost balls or if the group has caught up with you. 
• Understand that golfing ability and physical mobility differs in all players so please be considerate to others throughout your round. Ultimately, we want everyone to enjoy your round. 
• Observe The R&A’s Rules of Golf and any local rules in play, to enhance enjoyment of the game 
• Respect the golf course and staff by replacing divots, repairing pitch marks, raking bunkers and using seed mix when supplied 
• Adopt a sportsmanship manner and not knowingly cheat, throw clubs or disrespect employees, officials or fellow competitors
•  Showing empathy and respect to all golfers, which incorporates the following.
•  Displaying positive, kind courteous behaviour 
• oUsing your equipment for the sole purpose for which they are designed for. 
•  Switching your mobile phone to silent mode.
•  Avoid resting bags on, and pulling trolleys, buggies across, the putting/ practice greens
•  Observe signage around greens and paths in relation to trolley/buggy/cart use 
• Restrict alcohol consumption while on the golf course
•  The club has no dress code as such, but golfers shall respect others and not strip of below a shirt, polo shirt, T shirt when playing on the course.

• The use of foul, abusive or threatening language, adopting an aggressive manner, and physical/sexual harassment or intimidation of others are all forms of unacceptable behaviour. Any offender will be asked to stop and/or leave the premises and shall be reported to the club Captain / committee members for possible disciplinary action
• Consider your choice of language when in the clubhouse to avoid causing unnecessary offence to others 
• Consumption of excessive quantities of alcohol is not permitted. Please do not be offended if service is refused. 
• Smoking and the use of e-cigarettes is prohibited in indoor spaces and immediately at clubhouse entrances.
• Consideration must be taken when using your mobile phone within the clubhouse. Where appropriate calls should be taken away from bar area/restaurant.

Any person engaging in negative behaviour, both on course, within the clubhouse or via social media, which is considered unacceptable or detrimental to the game and/or to the reputation of Portmahomack (Tarbat) Golf Club should be reported to the club Captain or any committee member.

Complaints procedure 

Any grievances or complaints arising from time spent at the club should be addressed directly to the club Captain or any committee member in writing within 7 days.