As most Members would know, the Board considers the Basic Charge (the Ordinary membership Subscription fee) each year to meet the budget requirements for the following year. All other membership category and class Subscriptions are established as a percentage of the Basic Charge and vary accordingly.

Having considered the budget requirements necessary to fund operations and capital improvements in 2026, the Board has resolved to increase the Basic Charge by 7.5%. This is a similar percentage to the overall increase last year when the Non-refundable Capital Contribution (NRCC) was also increased. The increase is necessary for the following reasons.

  • The Net Return from operations must be sufficient to fund Capital Expenditure (CAPEX includes course and clubhouse improvements, and machinery and equipment procurements).
    • This year’s forecast Net Return needed to help fund some $600k in CAPEX.
    • CAPEX requirements for 2026 will require a similar amount of funds if the Club is to continue to improve the course and its other facilities.
  • The need to allow for the effects of ongoing conflicts, an unpredictable global economy and uncertain inflation rates.
  • Rising operating costs, especially in the areas of wages, superannuation, electricity and machinery. The Club is not immune from rising costs.

Fortunately, due to prudent planning over the last few years Melville Glades is a reasonably affordable private golf club. The Club has the lowest membership costs of almost every other nearby fully private golf club. This will remain the case in 2026.

The increase in the highest Subscription fee is about an extra $3.87 a week. The Club remains great value for money. The NRCC, competition fees, locker fees and buggy shed fees will not be increasing. The Golf Australia/Golf WA Affiliation fee will increase marginally to $80.

Members will see this Subscription fee increase reflected in their 2026 membership invoices to be distributed in the next week. Everyone who pays in full by 31 December 2025 will go into the draw to be one of four members who will receive a 25% refund of their Subscription fees for 2026. 

I look forward to seeing you all at the Club in 2026.

Mark Bonser
President