Talking Points: Prehistoric hazard in Australia

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Golfers at the Australian PGA Championship might feel as if they are going back in time.

Way back in time.

The new owner of the Palmer Coolum Resort has erected a 26-foot mechanical T-Rex between the ninth green and 10th tee, which flips its tail and opens its mouth for a menacing roar when anyone approaches. The owner, billionaire Australian mining magnate Clive Palmer, has at least agreed to turn it off during the tournament. But it’s one reason the Australian PGA will be leaving Coolum after 11 years.

“I’ve heard it sounds like we are going to Jurassic Park, so this will be interesting,” Robert Allenby said.

Palmer wants to import more molded dinosaurs and turn the ocean resort into a theme park, or maybe a casino. But his plans have clashed with a tournament that dates to 1905. The owner already has put up more than 60 signs around the golf course to promote his interests, which includes his plan to build a replica of the Titanic.

The T-Rex is nicknamed “Jeff” and it is activated by movement.

Golfers playing social rounds recently have taken “dinosaur mulligans” when the roar occurs during a backswing on the 10th tee.

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To most people, Wednesday will just be a quirky date: Dec. 12, 2012, or 12-12-12. But to Packers fans, the number 12 carries special meaning.

Quarterback Aaron Rodgers wears No. 12.

So earlier this year the state Legislature designated the day Aaron Rodgers Day in honor of the Super Bowl winner and last year’s MVP.