Club president David Boag called the project no small feat adding it was a long time in the making and costing in total $1.3 million.

“Without it though we would not be able to support the tourists and locals who come here to play,” Mr Boag said.

He added that the club took 20 per cent of the treated effluent from council’s nearby Merimbula sewage treatment plant, eliminating the need to pump it into the ocean.

In fact in recent weeks since the new irrigation system has been working, the golf club has taken all available treated effluent to water the course.

Vice president Tony Freeman was closely involved in all aspects of the renewal and along with course superintendent Pat Wilson planned and made recommendations for the new system.

The club received $90,000 from the state government, encouraged and supported by member for Bega Andrew Constance, and $150,000 from Bega Valley Shire Council.

“There was a common assumption that golf clubs were privately owned, were filthy rich, and certainly did not require public financial assistance.

“Even many in our local community, who should known better, did not know that PMGC is a community based, not for profit sports club that provides considerable service and support to our local community,” Mr Freeman said.

The system was turned on with a flourish and outside lighting by Pat Wilson using his iPad to the cheers of the members and guests.

The golf club's new irrigation system replaces a system that was over 30 years old

29km of pipe

1000 sprinklers

8km of wiring

Construction started march 8

Construction finished early September ahead of schedule