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BIGGA launches Friends of First Green to support future greenkeeping workforce

May 18, 2026/in News, Press Release/by Admin

BIGGA launches Friends of First Green to support future greenkeeping workforce The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) is inviting businesses across the turf and golf industries to support the future of the profession by becoming Friends of First Green. Friends of First Green is a donation-led initiative designed to help BIGGA continue to […]

Corrina Urquhart appointed Executive Officer of the Amenity Forum

May 18, 2026/in News, People, Press Release/by Admin

Corrina Urquhart appointed Executive Officer of the Amenity Forum The Amenity Forum is pleased to announce the appointment of Corrina Urquhart as its new Executive Officer. The appointment comes at an important time for the Amenity Forum as the sector continues to respond to evolving regulatory, environmental and operational challenges. In her new fractional role, […]

BIGGA launches Friends of First Green to support future greenkeeping workforce

May 18, 2026/in News, Press Release/by Admin

Corrina Urquhart appointed Executive Officer of the Amenity Forum

May 18, 2026/in News, People, Press Release/by Admin

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BIGGA launches Friends of First Green to support future greenkeeping workforce

May 18, 2026/in News, Press Release/by Admin

BIGGA launches Friends of First Green to support future greenkeeping workforce

The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association (BIGGA) is inviting businesses across the turf and golf industries to support the future of the profession by becoming Friends of First Green.

BIGGA launches Friends of First Green to support future greenkeeping workforce

Friends of First Green is a donation-led initiative designed to help BIGGA continue to grow First Green, the environmental science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) education outreach programme that turns golf courses into outdoor classrooms.

Licensed by BIGGA with the kind permission of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) and its Foundation, First Green enables greenkeeping teams to host guided field trips for schools, giving young people hands-on learning experiences linked to soil science, ecology, water quality, machinery, problem-solving and the wider role of golf clubs within their communities.

The initiative is delivered free of charge to schools, helping ensure young people from a wide range of backgrounds can discover the skills, science and career opportunities involved in greenkeeping.

BIGGA is now inviting businesses to become Friends of First Green through an annual donation, with a suggested contribution of £500. Support from Friends will help BIGGA reach more schools, provide educational materials and resources, fund school transport bursaries, support clubs and volunteers delivering First Green events and expand outreach at careers and training events.

The first business to join the scheme is Siems Turfgrass Ltd, led by Ken Siems, whose support marks an important step in the growth of the initiative.

Jenny Bledge, BIGGA Workforce Project Manager, said: “Initiatives like First Green are so important for the future of our industry. If we want to continue attracting the next generation into greenkeeping and golf course management, we need to give young people the opportunity to see the wide range of skills, technology and career pathways our industry offers. Reaching both primary and secondary school pupils helps us spark that interest early and continue building it as they grow.

“Support through Friends of First Green will play a huge role in helping us make these opportunities accessible to as many young people as possible, regardless of background. Donations and support will help us continue developing resources, supporting hosting facilities and removing barriers that may prevent schools and young people from taking part.

“We are incredibly grateful to Ken Siems and Siems Turfgrass Ltd for becoming our first Friend of First Green and supporting the future of the profession in such a positive and meaningful way.”

Friends of First Green will be recognised equally through a listing on the Friends of First Green webpage, a digital ‘I’m a Friend of First Green’ badge and inclusion in BIGGA’s annual acknowledgement list.

Businesses interested in becoming a Friend of First Green can contact firstgreen@bigga.co.uk or visit the Friends of First Green page on the BIGGA website.

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Corrina Urquhart appointed Executive Officer of the Amenity Forum

May 18, 2026/in News, People, Press Release/by Admin

Corrina Urquhart appointed Executive Officer of the Amenity Forum

The Amenity Forum is pleased to announce the appointment of Corrina Urquhart as its new Executive Officer.

Corrina Urquhart appointed Executive Officer of the Amenity Forum

The appointment comes at an important time for the Amenity Forum as the sector continues to respond to evolving regulatory, environmental and operational challenges. In her new fractional role, Corrina will help grow the Forum’s membership and influence, translating its expertise into clear policy positions, stronger industry engagement and increased sector impact.

Corrina has held senior roles with organisations including BASIS Registration Ltd, where she most recently served as Chief Executive. With almost 20 years’ experience across membership, education and research organisations, she has a strong track record in influencing policy discussions and supporting professional standards across the land-based and environmental sectors.

Ian Graham, Chair of the Amenity Forum, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Corrina to the Amenity Forum. She brings the experience and leadership we need as we continue to evolve and strengthen the Forum’s voice, profile and impact across the sector.

Corrina understands how membership organisations can help shape policy, support their industries and build meaningful partnerships. She is widely recognised for her ability to bring people together, create momentum and deliver progress on complex issues.”

Commenting on her appointment, Corrina Urquhart said:

“I am excited to join the Amenity Forum as it has a strong reputation for bringing together organisations and individuals committed to promoting best practice, professionalism and responsible management within the amenity sector.

I look forward to working with members, partners and stakeholders to build on that strong foundation, strengthen engagement and help ensure the sector’s voice is clearly heard in policy and industry discussions.”

For the latest industry news visit turfmatters.co.uk/news

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Half Sized Blog Element (Single Author Style)

Half Sized Blog Element (Multi Author Style)

BIGGA launches Friends of First Green to support future greenkeeping workforce

Corrina Urquhart appointed Executive Officer of the Amenity Forum

BIGGA launches Friends of First Green to support future greenkeeping workforce

Corrina Urquhart appointed Executive Officer of the Amenity Forum

Full Sized Blog Element (Big Preview Pic)

BIGGA launches Friends of First Green to support future greenkeeping workforce

BIGGA launches Friends of First Green to support future greenkeeping workforce

Corrina Urquhart appointed Executive Officer of the Amenity Forum

Corrina Urquhart appointed Executive Officer of the Amenity Forum

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