Over the past 12 months, we have reviewed full-course competition scoring data to ensure our Stroke Index accurately reflects how each hole plays.

This review was based on nearly 40,000 Blue tee competition rounds, along with Ladies competition data from the same period.

As part of the Club’s broader Match governance framework, the Stroke Index review has been on the Match Committee’s agenda following the recent Course Re-rating. This forms part of ensuring our course ratings, handicapping and stroke allocation work together cohesively.

The findings were presented to and reviewed by the Match Committee, who have agreed that the data supports the recommended refinements.

The aim was simple:
To ensure the index order fairly reflects how holes separate players across handicap ranges and aligns with common private club practice.

 

What’s Changing?

Blue / Black / Yellow Tees

Most holes remain in a very similar position.

Two holes showed clear trends over the 12-month period:

Hole 2 (Par 5)
This hole has been playing harder than its current ranking suggests. It will move up the index.

Hole 9 (Par 3)
While still challenging, this hole has not been separating the field as much as its current ranking suggests. It will move slightly down the index.

A small number of other holes move one or two positions only. These are minor refinements to improve overall fairness.

 

Red Tees (Ladies)

The Ladies review confirmed the overall structure is sound.

Notable adjustments include:

  • Hole 4 moving higher
  • Hole 8 moving higher
  • Hole 15 moving slightly lower

All other movements are small refinements.

 

Updated Index Structure

To align with industry standards:

  • Index 1–18 remains the primary ranking
  • Index 19–36 follows the same order (+18)
  • Index 37–54 follows the same order (+36)

This creates clarity and consistency across competitions.

 

Plus Handicap Note

For handicaps 0–36, the new index applies as shown.

Plus handicappers follow a separate stroke allocation structure. If any plus handicap member would like to receive the full indexing detail, please email:

golf@melvilleglades.com

These changes are effective from Wednesday the 18th of February 2026.

INDEX PDF

Kind Regards, 
Harrison Peasnell 
Golf Operation Manager