Romford’s Whalebone Golf Club is discovering the many benefits of automous maintenance following the installation of a completely automated driving range system from GroundTech. Director Ed Blacker notes that the combination of ECHO robotics and the innovative Drop Pit wash return system has been pivotal to consistent presentation of the range and central to the venues wider growth and development.  

Acquired by its current owners in September 2025, Whalebone Golf Club is currently undergoing an exciting period of investment, with the aim of creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for golfers of all ages and abilities. Central to achieving that ambition is maintaining a well-presented driving range and optimising the utilisation of the club’s greenkeepers.  

“Our previous range set up presented a number of challenges” says Ed. “The entire range needed to be cleared before we could cut the grass, with the whole process taking valuable time away from the greenkeeping team’s daily responsibilities on the golf course.” After exploring available alternatives, Whalebone appointed robotic specialists GroundTech to install an ECHO RP1250 robotic ball picker, ECHO TM-1050 mower complete with deflection kit and the revolutionary Drop Pit wash return system – enabling ball collection and grass cutting to take place simultaneously and maintaining a constant supply of clean golf balls for the range. 

A few short months after the installation, Ed says the set-up has transformed the upkeep of the busy range, which can see as many as 15,000 golf balls used in a single day. “We estimate we’re saving four or five hours of labour each day which can be redirected into more valuable work elsewhere around the site.”  

The finish of the ECHO TM-1050 has also impressed. “We can cut in all conditions, maintaining presentation throughout the year which is vital for creating a good first impression. It makes a real difference to the customer experience hitting into an outfield that is well manicured and not covered in golf balls.”  

Ed also praised the installation and support provided by the GroundTech team. “They offered a complete solution, from consultation and planning through to installation and full training. The team were efficient and friendly and, with minimal construction and groundworks needed, the whole project was completed very quickly, and we’re pleased with the outcome.”