Inside Golf Travel November 2014

Issue 13 // NOV 2014

www.insidegolf.com.au

Southern Charm Golf on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, surf coast & Bellarine Peninsula

PLUS+ Golf, game and gorillas Murray River magic New Zealand golf and motorhome tours Golf in Cornwall and Suffolk

www.terracedowns.co.nz / golf@terracedowns.co.nz / facebook.com/terracedownsresort / +64 3318 6943 / Windwhistle, Canterbury, New Zealand

www.insidegolftravel.com.au Publisher: Outdoor Sports Publishing ACN 113 836 301 ABN 30 043 104 919 PO BOX 437, Miami, QLD 4220 Editor: Richard Fellner M: 0407 000 440 E: richard@insidegolf.com.au Chief Writer: David Newbery E: david@insidegolf.com.au Accounts: Sheridan Murphy M: 0404 075 823 E: accounts@insidegolf.com.au Advert Technical Enquiries: Stacey Fortescue M: 0420 319 893 E: stacey@insidegolf.com.au National Sales: Sam Arthur P: 1300 465 300 F: (07) 5535 4922 M: 0410 575 303 E: sam@insidegolf.com.au NSW Sales: Scott Barsby M: 0424 779 199 E: scott@insidegolf.com.au Qld Sales: David Ross M: 0439 612 458 E: david.ross@insidegolf.com.au VIC/TAS/SA Sales: Jon Perrett M: 0402 852 637 E: jon@insidegolf.com.au Sales: Lisa Coleman M: 0406 031 344 E: lisa@insidegolf.com.au National Agency Sales (non Golf): Marc Wilson M: 0419 107 143 E: marc@gypsymedia.com.au New Zealand Sales: Daniel Sim M: 0439 856 752 E: daniel@insidegolf.com.au COVER PHOTO: Peterborough Golf Club

Two nights in

Bangkok

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olfers heading to Thailand to enjoy the amazing variety of golf courses, food and sightseeing now have another incentive to pack their bags.

Tour operator Gimme Golf is offering two free nights’ accommodation at various four-star hotels in central Bangkok with all Thailand golf holidays taken prior to September 30th 2015. The offer can be taken prior to or directly after the golf tour and in some cases split so groups can have a day to relax either side of their holiday. Bonus nights are available courtesy of Thai Tourism and subject to availability of room allocations.

Steve Worner, Gimme Golf’s managing director, points to Hua Hin as the best place in Thailand with three stunning resort

International and domestic golf travel specialists

courses and another four courses located within 30 minutes of your accommodation.

All courses are well manicured with true greens and an assortment of tee-off areas to suit all levels of golfers.

Hua Hin also has excellent nightlife with an array of fine seafood restaurants and lively bars, but the town is far quieter than Bangkok with many couples choosing Hua Hin over Pattaya and Phuket which also have quality golf courses.

Other areas to contemplate for a side trip for 3 – 4 days of culture and golf is the northern cooler towns of Chang Mai and Chang Rai only one hour North of Bangkok with return flights around $100 AUD. These two areas are far smaller and offer five-star

golfing facilities.

All accommodation offered in the packages is minimum four-stars with a five-star hotel chosen in Hua Hin. All clubhouses are modern and clean, with the pick of them being Black Mountain in Hua Hin where you can purchase a large bottle of Heineken after your round for around $3 and a tasty local Thai dish for under $5.

Main season to travel to Thailand for Australians is May through to September to escape the Southern winter and cash in on low season rates. Weather is still warm and if the rain decides to come through, it’s only likely to interrupt your round by 20 – 30 minutes. Thai airlines can offer some great specials and coupled with Gimme Golf’s packages pricing can be as low as under $2,000 if choosing Pattaya for an eight-day, five-round golf holiday with return airfares.

Steve notes that many of his groups upon return are asked for their general comments on the tour and the main feedback is on the wonderful “Service”: The hotel staff, the drivers for courses transfers, caddies and all golf staff. Just as important in the feedback is the high quality of golf courses which many surprised at how good the golf is in Thailand.

Gimme Golf is a licensed travel agent that specialises in golf holidays to all parts of Asia. For more information: www. gimmegolf.com.au •

Phone +61 3 9809 1022 info@gimmegolf.com.au wwww.gimmegolf.com.au

2015

2 FrEE NIgHts BaNgKoK

Pattaya

HUa HIN

$1,000 3.5 Star Mercure Hotel $1,335 5 Star Marriott Hotel

$1,095 4 Star aMari Hotel $1,235 5 Star Hilton Hotel

• 6 nights (twin double share) & daily buffet breakfast • 5 rounds of golf with cart and caddie (Laem Chabang, Siam Plantation, Siam Waterside, Burapha and St Andrews) • All private transfers airport accommodation - golf courses - Bangkok

• 6 nights (twin double share) & daily buffet breakfast • 4 rounds of golf with cart and caddie (Black Mountain, Banyan GC, Springfield GC and Majestic Creek) • All private transfers airport - accommodation - golf courses - Bangkok

PHUKEt $1,295

• 6 nights 4 Star Dusit D2 (twin double share) & daily buffet breakfast • 4 rounds of golf with cart and caddies and carts where allowed (red Mountain Blue Canyon, Loch Palm and Laguna CC) • All private transfers airport - accommodation - golf courses - Bangkok

Golf Package prices are based on low season 1/5/2015 and 30/09/2015 and 4 golfers | Gimmegolf provides bonus hotel nights in Bangkok until allocation is complete

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | November 2014

Golf Classic a huge hit on the

Mornington Peninsula

Champion James Rutter and Mayor Cr Antonella Celi (Aarron Ralston, RMA Photography)

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he Fifth Annual Mornington Peninsula Golf Classic was a massive success over the week of 5 to 10 October. A field of nearly 220 players travelled from around Australia and New Zealand to play the four tournament courses – The Ocean Course at The National, Portsea, Flinders and The Dunes.

Many golfers also enjoyed the opening day’s golf at Sorrento as well as the final day of golf at Mornington. Nearly half of this year’s golfers had played the MP Golf Classic previously and were able to catch

Women’s Winner Netti Buchanan and Mayor Cr Antonella Celi (Aarron Ralston, RMA Photography)

up with friends from previous Classics as well as make many new golfing buddies.

Groups of golfers from clubs such as Cronulla, Hawks Nest, Pennant Hills, Royal Canberra, Sanctuary Cove, Shortland Waters, South Lakes and Yowani joined with other golfers to play in the graded tournament.

The Men’s winner was James Rutter (7 hcp) from Hawks Nest with a score of 143 points. The runner up, with a score of 142 points on a countback at The Dunes, was

Steve McCosker (10.4 hcp), from RydeParramatta. The women’s winner was Netti Buchanan (12.1 hcp) from Pennant Hills with a score of 127. The runner up was Sarah Hodgkinson (21.9 hcp) from New South Wales, with a score of 125 points. Sarah was also the runner up on a countback at Portsea.

The overall winner was James Rutter and the overall runner up was Steve McCosker. All the winners were presented with their prizes at the fantastic Presentation Dinner on the final night at

The National Golf Club.

Five of the golfers were also presented with their “5 Year Participation” awards and to join in the spirit, a couple of them also wore their previous years’ Golf Classic polo shirts throughout the week.

There was also a busy social program as part of the MP Golf Classic – The Welcome Party at Sorrento Golf Club, complete with jazz musicians; a superb Gala Food and Wine Dinner at the 1 Chef’s Hat Flinders Hotel (attended by five of the well-known local winemakers) and the local produce-themed Celebrity Dinner at Eagle Ridge. Diners at the Celebrity Dinner experienced the best of golfing talent anywhere – Peter Thomson AO (five-time British Open winner), Ross Perrett (golf course architect) and golf professional David Good. Leon Wiegard was the very entertaining MC. Many golfers managed to take in the other nearby attractions by visiting a number of the wineries, the Peninsula Hot Springs, the Archibald Prize as well as sampling the great cafés and some of the other great golf courses.

All said and done, everyone enjoyed the experience and many will be back next year with other golfing mates.

The overwhelming feedback was that October is a fantastic time to hold the Classic, so make sure you put an entry in your diary for 5-8 October 2015!

To register your interest in next year’s Mornington Peninsula Golf Classic, send an email to info@ golfmorningtonpeninsula.com.au •

Luxury Boutique GoLf HoLidays 2015 Masters tour 2015 | BritisH open 2015 BRiTish OPEN 2015 GREEN JACKET PACKAGE: Bonus inclusions • 3 DAYS at Masters Tournament • 13 nights luxury accommodation Pebble Beach, Pinehurst including brand new 5 star suite hotel in Augusta • Playing golf at Pebble Beach | Spyglass | Pinehurst No 2 | The Reserve Club Woodside – plus other amazing courses • Motorised carts and range balls • 3 dinners at Pinehurst ala Carte Restaurants Guaranteed Small Groups

All itravel packages include: • • • •

Welcome dinners Daily cooked breakfast Luxury Accommodation Pre-golf clinic and lessons with PGA Professional • Private transfers • Tour guide • Golf competitions and prizes

• 6 games of golf playing at Kintyre | Ailsa | Old Course Royal Troon | Carnoustie and *Muirfield plus more • British Open 2 days Friday/Sunday • 10 nights luxury accommodation • Private Whisky Tasting Experience, Castle and City Tour • Putting tournament with antique putters • Traditional Scottish Dinner Evening with Piper • Travel Insurance *Muirfield available to the 1st 12 players booked and paid

iRElANd TOuR 2015 • 5 games of golf playing at Ballybunion | Waterville | Tralee | Portmarnock K Club Links – Palmer/Ryder Course • 7 nights luxury accommodation

Additional Cost for airfares for all packages with QANTAS available on inquiry

Other Packages Available • Masters Week Augusta Package (6 nights) • Las Vegas Package Extension (4 nights) Stacey Arthur | www.itravel-au.com | p: 02 42850711 | m: 0402 327 606 | e: stacey@itravel-au.com | NSW T/A Licence No. 2TA4250 All information is correct at time of print and is subject to change without notice, due to matters outside our control such as adverse currency fluctuations, taxes and fuel surcharges

November 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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Southern

charm

RACV Torquay Resort

Featuring stunning beaches, historic towns, awe-inspiring scenery and, of course, spectacular golf, Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula combine into one of Australia’s most enjoyable ‘must-visit’ destinations for travellers and golf lovers alike.

RACV Torquay Resort Located at 1 Great Ocean Road, RACV Torquay Resort sits at the start of Victoria’s premier tourist drive destination and is a leisurely 75 minutes’ drive from Melbourne.

Perched within the backdrop of the Torquay and Jan Juc beaches, the resort is set on an expansive golf course with spectacular ocean views and beach access.

Opened in June 2013, the resort is an architectural delight, featuring rammed earth walls and gentle curves that mirror that of the landscape. Featuring 92 ocean or golf course view rooms and suites, conference facilities, Day spa with Turkish Hammam bathing area and a full Restaurant, Bistro and bar, the resort has everything for your quick getaway,

corporate package or golfing adventure.

For the non-golfers in your group, there are two multipurpose flood-lit tennis courts, a 25m heated indoor pool, gym, spa and sauna. There is even a children’s playground and jumping pillow for the kids.

The par-71 course has gone through some recent renovations by Ogilvy Clayton—a Melbourne design team headed by Geoff Ogilvy and Mike Clayton.

Inside Golf played the course following the redevelopment and we were impressed with its playability, challenge and scenic beauty.

The couch fairways are generally wide and inviting, giving you plenty of opportunities to open up the shoulders

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Curlewis Golf Club

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Portarlington Golf Club

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Lonsdale Golf Club

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Barwon Heads Golf Club

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Thirteenth Beach Golf Club

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The Sands Torquay

and have a go at a monster drive. But beware of the rough and strategicallyplaced obstacles along the way, from the tricky bunkers to the ball-grabbing wetlands and lakes (with a few strongsloped fairways feeding right into danger), they can spoil your game.

The undulating greens were in spectacular condition on our visit. We found them true, yet tricky enough to make them challenging, especially with the severe breaks in some hole locations.

And don’t forget about the stunning views. With plenty of glimpses of the surf in the distance, it is easy to become distracted by the beauty during your round.

Overall, we really enjoyed playing the

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RACV Torquay Resort

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Anglesea Golf Club

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Warrnambool Golf Club

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Port Fairy Golf Club

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Peterborough Golf Club Inc.

course, and we recommend a hit any time you are in the area.

The course is suitable for all levels, and there’s a new practice area including practice bunkers. New Cleveland hire equipment is available including a brandnew fleet of electric carts. Neat dress code is required and bookings essential.

Following your round, relax with a postgame drink on the terrace of the new Sports Lounge - White’s Paddock, or just enjoy some of the other amenities that this spectacular resort has to offer.

All auto club members, such as RACV, NRMA and RACQ can enjoy discounts on golf rounds.

To find out more call (03) 5261 1677 or visit www.racv.com.au/resorts

Stay and Play Packages from $149 per person (quad share) • AAA rated 4½ star accommodation • Stylish 1 & 2 bedroom fully self-contained apartments • Stay and Play Packages tailored to suit your group • Situated on two of Australia’s highest rated golf courses, designed by Sir Nick Faldo & Tony Cashmore • Restaurant with bar, lounge & open fireplace • Outdoor swimming pool, gymnasium, Jumpz Trampoline Park, BBQ terrace and tennis courts 36 Fourteenth Road, Barwon Heads VIC 3227 Phone: (03) 5254 1777 | Fax: (03) 5254 1666 Email: info@barwonheadsresort.com.au | Web: www.barwonheadsresort.com.au 4

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | November 2014

Portarlington Golf Club

Portarlington Golf Club Voted by the players of the PGA as the best regional Pro-Am Course of the year for two years running, the Portarlington Golf Club features a 5949 metre par72 tree-lined Cashmore design, with a variety of holes, putting surfaces and excellent all year condition.

Situated on the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula just minutes from the town centre and the waterfront, no trip to the area would be complete without a round or two. Carts are available on hand for hire with excellent practice facilities.

Green fee players are always welcome with great corporate and social golf packages on offer.

The club’s annual events such as the signature Carnival of Golf, running from August til September, which this year celebrated its 16th year as well as the Award-winning Pro-Am held in March, attract golfers of all ages and experiences to this wonderful club.

The newly renovated clubhouse offers something for everyone with ample entertainment, including TAB, Keno and Foxtel, as well as function areas and their award-winning bistro, which is open 7 days for both lunch and dinner. For more information please visit the club’s website www.portarlingtongolf.com.au, or ring the Pro Shop on (03) 5259 3361.

Barwon Heads Golf Club NESTLED amongst the coastal dunes and metres from the spectacular 13th Beach on Victoria’s renowned Surf Coast, the highly ranked Barwon Heads links course has been providing an enjoyable challenge for all golfers since the early 1900’s. But what makes Barwon Heads such a distinct delight is the combination of classic links golf and the ability to experience the old-school practices and refinements of an overnight stay in the 90 year old clubhouse.

Since its creation over a century ago,

Barwon Heads Golf Club the Barwon Heads Golf Club has been considered among the finest in the country. The course planning over this time has resisted change for the sake of change. Rather, it has sought to preserve the brilliant natural contours of the landscape that shape the holes amid the sand dunes. This is one of the most alluring features of the course.

Before playing the course, golfers should make use of the top-class short game practice facility. It features various angles of greens, aprons and bunkers that replicate the natural contours found on the course, and is the perfect place to warm up, practice or take a short game lesson. This year, the club also invested in a state-of-the-art teaching hut that allows for all-weather and technology-based coaching.

The iconic clubhouse, open only to Members, their guests and those staying in-house turns 90 years old this year.

Groups of golfers, many of whom return

annually, have been making use of the 19 guest rooms on the upper level of the clubhouse since it opened in December 1924.

The Heritage Victoria and National Trust listed clubhouse is famed for its oldworld charm. With stunning architecture and captivating views, it is a clubhouse designed for all seasons. House guests can enjoy the expansive balconies in summer or warm themselves after a Scottish links-like experience before the luxurious open fires during the cooler months.

Other facilities at the club include a par three course and several mod-grass tennis courts; while inside the clubhouse you’ll find a billiards room along with formal and informal dining areas. And it’s not just the course that is highly rated: one of Australia’s annual golf publications rated the club the best in Australia for food and beverage in 2014.

The club extends a warm welcome

Home of the 2015

Victorian Open

November 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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Barwon Heads Resort

to golfers to stay in the house and experience all that the wonderful club has to offer, including over 100 years of golfing history. For more details about the Barwon Heads Golf Club and the accommodation packages offered visit www.bhgc.com.au or call (03) 52556255.

Barwon Heads Resort at 13th Beach Ideally located within the tranquil surrounds of 13th Beach Golf Links on the scenic Bellarine Peninsula, Barwon Heads Resort at 13th Beach is a modern accommodation and function venue, ideal for a family seaside holiday, stay and play golf package or as a venue for a stylish wedding or conference.

Accommodation comprises of 50 modern, self-contained 1 and 2 bedroom apartment offering all the comforts of home. Spacious bedrooms offer king, queen and/or single beds, crisp white sheets, wall mounted LCD TV and large

bathrooms. An open plan, fully-equipped kitchenette and living area opens on to a large balcony/terrace with outdoor setting overlooking the courses and driving range.

Adjoining the accommodation is a modern, purpose-built function centre offering an onsite restaurant with natural light-filled rooms, bar with open fireplace and outdoor terrace. Catering for groups of 10 to 120 people for a seated function or business meeting, to 220 for a cocktail event, Barwon Heads Resort provides a sophisticated venue for all events. A full range of AV equipment is available and superb catering is supplied by passionate chefs using the finest produce of the Bellarine region.

Stay and Play Golf packages are available for the 13th Beach Golf Links offering two championship courses consistently ranked in the Top 20 golf courses in Australia. Accommodation is just a short walk to a modern clubhouse

LONSDALE GOLF CLUB

Lonsdale Golf Club

with restaurant, bar and pro shop open daily. The 13th Beach Golf Academy has two AAA rated PGA golf professionals, driving range and a golf fitting service.

If golf is not your game, enjoy a hit of tennis, a dip in the outdoor swimming pool or a workout in their gymnasium.

13th Beach is a 15-minute walk away, and the seaside villages of Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove are only a few minutes’ drive away, with family-friendly beaches, cafes, restaurants, shopping, Jirrahlinga Koala and Wildlife Sanctuary, HMAS Canberra Dive site and The Lotus Day Spa for pampering.

For more information, contact Reservations on: (03) 5254 1777, email info@barwonheadsresort.com.au, or visit www.barwonheadsresort.com.au

Lonsdale Golf Club Located at the entrance to Port Phillip Bay (only 90 minutes from Melbourne, and 25 minutes from Geelong), the Lonsdale

Golf Club is a highly regarded 18-hole sandbelt course that can be played 12 months a year.

Measuring 5710m for men (Par 71) and 5172m for women (Par 72), the course continues to receive praise from visitors, golf professionals and Club members.

The course offers three practice areas which includes a driving range. The Clubhouse features a welcoming atmosphere with excellent bar and dining facilities which offer before and after golf snacks, lunches and A La Carte dining, and a superb beer garden which enjoys the afternoon sun, for members and visitors alike.

The fully-stocked Pro Shop has been totally transformed in the past three years, designed around custom fitting for drivers, fairway woods, hybrids, irons, wedges, putters and golf balls. Club Professional Sean Charleston (AAA PGA Professional) has been at Lonsdale for nearly five years developing teaching

“Play the course that shaped Marc Leishman’s game”

A Highly Regarded 18 Hole Sandbelt Golf Course • Green Fee Players Welcome • Extensively stocked Pro Shop • Club Professional • On site Practice Driving Range & other practise facilities • Tee times need to be booked 69 Fellows Road, Point Lonsdale

Phone (03) 5258 1523

www.lonsdalegc.com.au 6

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | November 2014

WARRNAMBOOL GOLF CLUB Pro Shop (03) 5562 8528 Admin (03) 5562 2108 golf@wgcinc.com.au

www.wgcinc.com.au

November 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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Port Fairy Golf Club

Anglesea Golf Club

programs, custom fitting, retailing and organising golf days. The teaching programs have focused on juniors, women golfers and pennant players.

Sean also addresses golf fitness and the short game, and is available on a one to one basis to focus on your individual instruction needs. The Pro Shop carries a number of major brands to suit a broad range of budgets.

Golf days at Lonsdale have been well supported, with the Club’s signature event The Lonsdale Classic in January, selling out within weeks of entry forms being released.

The Lonsdale Golf Club continues to provide a high-class sandbelt course, quality practice facilities and a fullystocked pro shop with Professional.

The Tea Trees bistro in the Clubhouse can cater for all food and beverage requirements including functions. For more information visit www.lonsdalegc. com.au or phone 03 5258 1955.

Anglesea Golf Club The Anglesea Golf Course, situated on the Great Ocean Road, is an undulating 6074m Par-73 layout set in natural bushland. A feature of the course is the number of elevated greens that require plenty of thought when selecting your club. Adding to the mix are 42 “sandbelt style” bunkers sprinkled throughout the course, eucalypt tree-lined fairways, and the ever-present resident population of around 300 Eastern Grey Kangaroos.

These features all combine to produce a stimulating round of golf. Plus, the wet winter has resulted in the Anglesea Golf Club emerging in terrific condition, so there has never been a better time to play the course.

The Clubhouse bar and bistro are open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Memberships are available for 7-Day, Junior and the 18-25yo categories, and social golfers/green-fee players are welcome every day. Green fees range

from $30 (9 holes) to $50 (18 holes).

Junior rates are $15/$25. Club, pull buggy & motorised cart hire available.

For more information: Phone: (03) 5263 1582, Golf Bookings: (03) 5263 1951, email: info@angleseagolfclub.com.au or visit www.angleseagolfclub.com.au

Port Fairy Golf Club Winding its way through unspoilt sand dunes, with spectacular views to be had at every turn, Port Fairy Golf Club is a classic links-style course that is reminiscent of the great layouts found in Ireland. So if you’ve ever fancied playing a great Irish links course, but don’t have the money or time to get there, then Port Fairy is the perfect alternative.

Located 5km east of the historic Port Fairy township, the course is consistently ranked in the “50 Best Public Access Courses in Australia” and in the “25 Best in Victoria.” Course designer Mike Clayton

once rated it as “the best value golf in Australia.”

There are numerous highlights on this outstanding course. The 5th hole, a 448-metre par-5, is one of the most beautiful holes on the course with a lovely wide and undulating fairway that sweeps uphill and curves from left to right. Strategically-placed bunkers demand accuracy on the second shot before the approach to a fast back-tofront sloping green. The 8th is a stunning 122-metre downhill par-3 to a large rolling green that requires anything from a wedge to a 3-iron depending on the wind and skill of the golfer.

Holes 12 to 16 are agreed by many to be among the best stretch of golf holes in the country, with spectacular ocean views (providing frequent sightings of southern right whales during the winter and early spring) and some very challenging hole designs.

The twelfth is a 470-metre par-5 along

Join from 1st December and receive 15 months for the price of 12

Green Fee Players Welcome (including Saturday & Sunday) 18 Holes (Weekend) from $40 18 Holes (Weekday) from $35

Group Rates Available Bookings now open for 2015

7 DAY MEMBERSHIP $999 Price includes affiliation fees, insurance and gst – no joining fee applies

Green fees $50 for 18 holes $30 for 9 holes Social Golf Group bookings available 7 days Women’s competitions Thursday, Saturday and Sunday Junior green fees $25 for 18 holes $15 for 9 holes Men’s competitions Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday Annual Tournament held over 8 days every October Hardings Hardware $10,000 Pro Am held on March Labour Day long weekend

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | November 2014

November 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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Warrnambool Golf Club

Thirteenth Beach Golf Links

the ocean with fabulous views. The right hand side is all OOB, and treacherous swathes of marram grass await the wayward shot to the left. The 409-metre 14th plays straight at the ocean and is nearly impossible to reach in two into the wind, and extremely difficult to hold when played downwind.

The course features a mixture of grasses and is immaculately conditioned. At 5887 metres it is not long by today’s standards but with the amount of wind it still tests the game of the most proficient golfers.

Picturesque and testing with spot-on playing conditions it is a game of golf not to be missed.

For more information, phone (03) 5568 2866, email: info@portfairygolf.com.au, or visit www.portfairygolf.com.au.

Thirteenth Beach Golf Links Located on the Bellarine Peninsula – just 15 minutes from Torquay or Geelong-- Thirteenth Beach Golf Links

features two spectacular 18-hole golf courses: the Beach Course (designed by Tony Cashmore) and the Creek Course, designed by Sir Nick Faldo and Tony Cashmore). The Beach Course, much of which winds through spectacular foreshore sand dunes, is true links style while the Creek Course is in a parkland setting, not unlike the courses on Melbourne’s famous Sandbelt.

Both courses are built on sand-based sandstone structure, and the facility’s southern boundary abuts 2.1 km of the famous 13th Beach surf beach.

Thirteenth Beach is the home of the 2013, 2014 and 2015 Men’s and Women’s Victorian Open, joining a long list of famous clubs on the Melbourne Sandbelt to have hosted this event.

The Beach Course is widely acclaimed as one of Australia’s Best 20 courses.

The key feature of the Beach Course is its wonderful set of par-3s. Starting at the brutal 180m 3rd hole to the dainty yet sinister 113m 16th, the par-3s of the

Beach Course offer golfers of all levels a true test of their iron play. The 7th and 12th are spectacular holes, nestled in natural sand dunes.

The Creek Course has continued to grow in stature since its opening in 2004.

The course is characterised by gently undulating couch fairways, huge, deep bunkers filled with yellow sand, and firm true greens surrounded by interesting bumps, swales and hollows, all closely mown. There is also plenty of greenside bunkering that helps form the slopes of the putting surfaces in the best traditions of Melbourne’s Sandbelt much admired

by Faldo. In addition, there is plenty of water on the course, with hazards on the 7th, 8th, 10th, 12th, 14th, 15th and 17th holes.

Both courses are irrigated with recycled water supplied by Barwon Water from its nearby Black Rock treatment plant. This allows them to be green and lush all year round.

Former Melbourne AFL champion and

SEN footy commentator David Schwarz says: “Membership at Thirteenth Beach is the best golfing investment I’ve ever made. It’s simply awesome. I can’t stop raving about the place!” About 1000 members agree with him!

For more information: phone: (03) 5254 2922, email: info@13thbeach.net, or visit www.13thbeach.net

Warrnambool Golf Club Warrnambool is a classically-designed course laid out between and over a massive tertiary dune system. The course offers a unique combination of exposed holes with elevated tees together with those carved into natural ti-tree-lined dunes.

Located within 2km of the regional city’s CBD, it makes for an ideal destination for the dedicated golf tourist, social golfing groups or family holiday makers.

The influence of the ever-present wind

Portarlington golf club www.PoRtaRlingtongolf.Com.au

Don’t miss the opportunity to play on two of the Top 100 Public Access Golf Courses in Australia!

from $125 per person per night (min 4 pp) *

Port Fairy

Big or Small Groups...we’ve got you covered!  Stylish fully self-contained houses & apartments  East Beach, Moyne River, Central or South Beach  Stay & Play packages tailored to suit your group  Reduced Green Fees for Port Fairy & Warrnambool

Call us to help plan your next golfing adventure * conditions apply

Warrnambool

www.portfairyaccom.com.au

• Golf memberships - Nov 2014- June 2015 - 7 Day $635 - 6 Day $563 • Green fee players welcome • Clubhouse facilities - Award-winning bistro open 7 days - TAB - Keno • Winner of the PGA Regional Pro-Am of the Year 2012-2013 • Winner of the PGA Regional Pro-Am Course of the Year 2011-2012 & 2012-2013

Shop 2/54 Sackville Street, Port Fairy VIC 3284 03 5568 3150 accommodation@hearns.com.au

Great Location | Great Service | Great Stay 10

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | November 2014

130 Hood Road, Portarlington, Victoria Clubhouse: (03) 5259 249 info@portarlingtongolf.com.au

The Sands Torquay

Curlewis Golf Club

cannot be understated and really adds to the challenge of a layout that offers variety from one round to the next. It is perhaps this aspect which shaped the game of Warrnambool’s most famous golfing export, Marc Leishman, to the level of success he now enjoys.

The course has received a good deal of attention over recent years and the installation of an integrated irrigation system, supplied with recycled water, has allowed the staff to present the course in immaculate condition.

The trio of holes from the short par-4, 4th to the slight uphill dogleg 6th, are a highlight as are the 13th and 14th on the inward nine.

A well-stocked Pro Shop enables club professional Craig Bonney and his friendly staff to cater for all your equipment and apparel needs.

For more information, phone the Pro shop on (03)5562 8528; Club House (03) 5562 2108, email golf@wgcinc.com. au or visit www.wgcinc.com.au.

Curlewis Golf Club Just 10 minutes from Geelong, Curlewis Golf Club boasts a 6150 metre Par-72 course with naturally undulating fairways, large contoured greens and a challenge for the serious and social golfer.

Curlewis’s risk and reward design has been compared with some of Melbourne’s famous courses. The opening short par-5, and the following two short par-4’s would not be out of place on any of the best courses on the Melbourne Sandbelt. In 2013 the course was ranked in Ausgolf’s Top 50 Public Access courses while in 2014 Curlewis was ranked in Golf Australia Magazine’s Top 100 courses.

As such, Curlewis is a must play when visiting the Bellarine.

The course’s signature hole is the Par3, 139m 8th hole. This beauty features a two-tiered, elevated green than can be tricky if you land the ball in the wrong area. It also has deep bunkers on the front, left and right of the green. If you miss the green, and also miss the

bunkers, your ball will run anything up to 15 metres into the surrounding gulley leaving a very tricky pitch.

The licensed clubhouse has a fullyserviced bar and can be hired for corporate and private functions, with the dining room comfortably seating up to 120 guests.

The Curlewis Staff are also available to provide information on the range of membership categories. Green fees are $35 on weekdays, $47 on Saturday and $40 on Sunday. Discounts are available for group golf bookings.

For more information, phone (03) 5251 2534, or visit www.curlewisgolf.com.au

The Sands Torquay THE Stuart Appleby-designed The Sands Torquay is a challenging and picturesque seaside course that offers a true test of golf.

While overtly challenging when first opened, a recent course mini-makeover has resulted in a very playable and

challenging course that is a real joy to play. With many of the extraneous bunkers removed, smart players are now rewarded, the risk-reward players can “go for it”, and the high-handicappers have half a chance at a decent round.

The views throughout the course are magnificent, the greens are firm and true, and the course itself is in great condition. There are a lot of blind greens, and trouble can be found everywhere, but thankfully there are plenty of chances to redeem yourself if you find you’re in trouble off the tee.

The Sands is a nicely manicured and quite challenging golf course which doesn’t necessarily require booming drives. Being able to hit the ball long on this course comes with quite a few risks. The bunkering and hazards that line most of the fairways don’t lend themselves to wayward tee shots. So if you are not a high percentage fairway hitter, then choose a safer club for your tee shots. Playing with an iron or hybrid

November 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

11

Peterborough Golf Club

Sandcastles

off the tee helps you to steer clear of the nicely positioned bunkers, and potentially navigate some of the narrow landing areas. Since you rarely need a long iron into the greens, a more conservative style of play will leave you with a nice easy wedge/8- iron approach shot. Overall the greens are quite heavily bunkered and relatively small which makes them challenging to hit, even more so if you are playing from a bunker or the rough. Once on the dance floor, though, they play as true as any green you’ll see.

Overall, The Sand is a real pleasure to play, and we recommend you drop by for a round.

For more information, phone: 03 5264 3333, or visit www.thesandstorquay.com

Peterborough GOLF CLUB The Peterborough Golf Club has a golfing heritage dating back to the 1880’s and is one of the ‘hidden gems’on the Great Ocean Road.

The general appearance of the 9-hole course is reminiscent of the traditional links that abound on the coast of Scotland. The village is always in sight as is the spectacular coastline. The fairways are shared in the traditional manner and are a mixture of fine grasses offering tight lies that allow much of the game to be played on the ground. Whilst the course is not long at 1920 meters with a par of 32 and without a single bunker, it is no pushover.

It is unprotected from the prevailing winds which can be severe and variable making club selection difficult. The greens are smallish targets and in some cases have treacherous slopes. The ever present out of bounds and the need to negotiate some road crossings make playing this little gem a great challenge and loads of fun.

At $15 per day (paid via an ‘Honesty Box’), a round at Peterborough is great value and an unforgettable golfing experience.

Shearwater House

Hearn’s Port Fairy Accommodation Imagine waking up to the sound of the ocean and knowing all you have to do that day is play 18 glorious holes of Golf at Port Fairy.

Hearn’s Port Fairy Accommodation can bring that thought to life, catering for golfing groups large and small in stunning accommodations.

Sandcastles is one such property, sleeping 12 people, this ‘Aspen inspired’ 6 bedroom, 3 bathroom property offers absolute beachfront views, so for those of your group who may prefer to relax in luxury and be in strolling distance to the heart of Port Fairy, rather than wandering the beautiful Port Fairy Golf Links, this property is ideal.

Affording the same luxurious feeling, Shearwater House also has 6 bedrooms, and has the added bonus of 6 ensuite bathrooms, perfect for the ladies getting ready for a meal out after a personal best game. Located right on the Moyne River,

Shearwater House is a hop, skip and jump to all the wonderful restaurants Port Fairy has to offer.

Hearn’s Port Fairy Accommodation in association with Port Fairy Golf Links and Warrnambool Golf Club offer Stay and Play packages and discounts through the off season, making trips to Port Fairy the ideal weekend getaway.

If a romantic couples escape and golf for two is more to your liking, Hearn’s Port Fairy Accommodation oversee the spectacular Hearn’s Beachside Villas, nestled in the sand dunes. Available in one, two or three bedroom Villas, these architecturally designed, contemporary accommodations offer peace, privacy and complete beach frontage, just a 10-minute drive to town and the course.

Managing over 100 properties, Hearn’s Port Fairy Accommodation will be sure to have a property to suit your needs. www.portfairyaccom.com.au •

www.portfairygolf.com.au This natural links style course with spectacular ocean views, winds its way through undulating sand dunes.

The course is less than five minutes from the centre of charming, historic Port Fairy, along the Princes Highway in the Shipwreck Coast and Great Ocean Road Tourism regions.

Fully Licensed Club House

Green Fees: $40 - Nine Holes $25 - Juniors $15 Phone: (03) 5568 2866 • Email: info@portfairygolf.com.au 12

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | November 2014

Chase the Sun along the Nullarbor Links Chasing the Sun Festival - 2015 Saturday 11 April – Ceduna/Fowlers Bay Watch and salute the sun rising with a champagne breakfast hosted by the members of Ceduna Golf Club. Prepare for the commencement of 7 days of fun entertainment and golf. After the breakfast play the Ceduna Holes, Denial Bay and Oyster Beds. After breakfast, drive to Penong and play Windmills then head for Fowlers Bay. Accommodation will be provided by the locals.

T

he World’s Longest Golf Course, the Nullarbor Links, marries one of the world’s most popular sports with one of Australia’s greatest road adventures.

Traversing The Nullarbor Plain, this unique 18-hole par-72 golf course spans 1,365 kilometres with one hole in each participating town or roadhouse along the Eyre Highway between Kalgoorlie in Western Australia and Ceduna in South Australia. Along the way, golfers can explore the region’s contrasting geographic features, unspoilt landscapes, azure waters, Australian wildlife, eucalypt and hardwood forests, early explorer heritage, museums, walk trails, caves, fossicking, fishing and station stays.

Each hole includes a synthetic green, tee and rugged outback-style natural terrain fairway. The course provides visitors with a quintessential Australian

golfing experience. Inside Golf’s Tiffany Mika and her husband played the course (see the full story online), and had an absolute blast at every turn.

This year, the Nullarbor Links is again hosting their annual Chasing the Sun Golf Festival. Commencing with a champagne breakfast to watch the sunrise on the foreshore in Ceduna on Saturday 11 April 2015 and finishing in Kalgoorlie to watch the sunset with cocktails at the Kalgoorlie Golf Club, on Friday 17 April 2015, the event is a must-attend for any golf tragic or travelling adventurer.

Total cost of the tournament and entertainment: $325 including GST for members of Nullarbor Links. $365 including GST for non members. Non golfers pay $205 including GST. Further Information: Alf Caputo: Mob: 0407 990 049, Email: alfiecap@bigpond. net.au , Web: www.nullarborlinks.com

TITIRANGI GOLF CLUB AUCKLAND

In the evening wander down to the Fowlers Bay historic Town Hall and marvel at the restoration that has been achieved. The concert will feature singer song writer Allan Wright and two great bush poets Marco and Muz. Sunday 12 April – Fowlers Bay/Border Bright and early head for Nundroo and play Wombat Hole, then move onto the Great Australian Bight to view some of the most spectacular scenery Australia has to offer. Off to Nullarbor and play Dingo’s Den, trying not to lose your ball to the Crows.

Monday 13 April – WA Border Play Border Kangaroo at the village and then Nullarbor Nymph at Eucla.

Afterwards, search for buried treasure at Eucla Beach, or enjoy a virtual race meeting where you could easily win truckloads of money.

Tuesday 14 April – Border/Madura Head for Madura, play the Watering Hole at Mundrabilla then settle into your

accommodation and prepare to play the $10,000 hole in one competition and the annual putting competition.

Afterwards, relax with a few beers, some Kiwi cuisine, and then settle in for the latest release movie on the Big Screen.

Wednesday 15 April – Madura/Norseman Play Eagles Nest, Ninety Miles Straight and Skylab, Sheep’s Back and move onto Norseman. Later, join the Norseman community and celebrate Australia’s diverse culture with indigenous people at a bush camp oven. Allan Wright will perform some Indigenous and Australian songs.

Thursday 16 April – Norseman/Kalgoorlie Play the two Norseman holes and then check out the magnificent Silver Lake at Kambalda. Play Silver Lake at the Kambalda Golf Course, then head for Kalgoorlie. Play your final two holes, Golden Mile and CY O’Connor. Book into your accommodation at the Rydges, and you’re free to do as you please.

Friday 17 April – Kalgoorlie Join the event Sponsors and Members of the Kalgoorlie Golf Club in a fourball Ambrose Tournament at the magnificent golf course in Kalgoorlie.

Later, toast the sun and enjoy a dinner with entertainment.

Fully detailed itinerary available at www.nullarborlinks.com

Coming to visit

New Zealand?

While you are here come play New Zealand’s only Alister MacKenzie designed course and Auckland’s #1 rated course.

Mention this ad to receive a special Australian visitor reduced green fee rate (20% off rate of the day) www.titirangigolf.co.nz | golfdirector@titirangigolf.co.nz | +64 9827 3967 | Links Rd, New Lynn, Auckland, New Zealand November 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

13

English links:

Cornwall and Suffolk Andrew Crockett

S

t Enedoc Golf Course is one of the finest links golf courses in the world, rated #99 in Golf Digest’s ‘World 100 Greatest Courses’ in 2014. To contrast the wonder that is St Enedoc and links golf, is the exclusive air of the heathland gem that is Aldeburgh Golf Club in Suffolk, East Anglia. Aldeburgh is no slouch in golf course ratings, ranking as high as 31st in England by Golf World and with a rich history dating back to 1884, a club steeped in tradition. In common, both courses have been designed and remodelled by the greatest golfers of the early 1900s, Open Champions James Braid, Willie Park Jnr, JH Taylor and Willie Fernie.

As a golfer, if you are vising Cornwall, England, you will hear of the famed St Enedoc in your initial discussions with other golfers. The course has a very fine reputation and you won’t hear many golfers from Cornwall not put the famed St Enedoc in their top 3. The jury is not out on St Enedoc, the verdict is in before you even tee off, this is a gem of a golf course. Situated on the North Cornwall coast and overlooking the Camel Estuary, with Padstow on the far side, this part of Cornwall attracts a wide variety of visitors in the summertime; often London based business tycoons who fancy a summer vacation at their beach house, somewhat akin to Melbourne and Mornington

St Enedoc Golf Course, Cornwall Peninsula in Australia.

The history of St Enedoc and its Championship golf course dates back to 1888 where a small group of golfers played golf around the old church of St Enedoc.

By 1892 they had a club with 20 members.

The importance of the church has not been lost with time, it still sits in the centre of the course and is the signature hole, known as one of the most difficult par 4s in the land. The ‘Church hole’ par 4 10th requires a straight tee shot of no more than 230 yards, with trouble left and right.

From the middle of the fairway (if you are lucky enough to find it) you can now see the church behind the green. With a stream and hazard down the left side of

Golf and Game Tour 2015 September 17th – October 3rd 2015

14

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | November 2014

On a perfect summers day, teeing off from the 1st hole with the glorious coast on the horizon – this is a postcard moment. With an impeccable presentation all year around thanks to a generous tally of green staff, you quickly realise that there are ‘postcard holes’ whenever you catch

African Adventures THE SOUTH AFRICAN GOLF AND GAME SPECIALISTS

THE TOUR (excerpt) Australian golfing legend Bob Stanton and wife Lucy specialise in South African golf tours and after sold out 2013 and 2014 tours are pleased to present this 2015 tour for a small group of 12 couples / 24 guests.

the hole your approach shot is now over 200 yards uphill and a carry… all the way.

Similar in ethos to the ‘road hole’ at The Old Course at St Andrews, local knowledge would have you play for a 5, however your bravado will probably lead to a 7 and thoughts that the church could not be more aptly placed as you stand on the next tee and wonder where your round is going next.

•

•

• • • •

1 Night D’Oreale Grande at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg and welcome cocktail party.

3 Nights at both &Beyond Phinda and &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp – 12 Game drives.

2 Nights at Fairmont Zimbali Resort.

3 Nights at Fancourt Resort.

4 Nights at the Cape Grace Hotel, Cape Town.

5 Games of golf at Zimbali, Fancourt – Links and Montagu, Pezula and Pearl Valley.

16 NIGHTS / 17 DAyS ALL INCLUSIVE

A$ 12,260 per person sharing ex Johannesburg Single Supplement on request.

BOOKINGS AND INFORMATION Lucy: 0411 592 300 | Bob: 0411 706 840 lucy@lucystanton.com.au www.lucystanton.com.au/2015

Aldeburgh Golf Club in Suffolk, East Anglia your breath. With greens that roll like a proper championship course should-fast, true and well manicured – it is hard not to fall in love with St Enedoc on a perfect summer’s day. The locals will have you know that ‘she plays a bit different in a 3 club wind in Winter’. Visitors would be well advised to carry a spare ball in their pocket to save a long walk back to the tee for any errant tee shot that misses the fairway. This is proper links golf, designed by one of the best in the business, Mr James Braid.

On the other coast and perhaps an eight hour drive, is the exclusive and delightfully traditional Aldeburgh Golf Club. This is England’s second oldest Heathland course built on maritime heathland and

characterized by gorse-lined fairways and far reaching views of the River Alde and the North Sea. The original course was laid out by 1883 Open Champion Willie Fernie, but as more people flocked to the area the design had to change and that was put in the safe hands of another Open Champion Willie Park Jnr. Later JH Taylor, the third Open Champion to have had a hand in the course, was asked to do the new bunkering at a cost of £180. His great grass banked masterpieces are still visible today, recognisable by their sweeping banks, particularly impressive on the cross bunkers on the second nine.

Traditional to a fault, there is a historic charm to Aldeburgh that embodies the

2015 Golf Tours

thailand Golf ClaSSiC 2015 MarCh 16 – 21

4 world Class Golf Courses ~ fIve star hotels your own Personal Caddy ~ Great tournament the tour PaCkaGe BanGkok & Pattaya marCh 16 – 21

1 nights twin share accommodation at the Westin Grande Hotel in Bangkok 4 nights twin share accommodation at the Marriott Resort & Spa Pattaya 4 Rounds of golf at championship courses in Thailand, including your own caddy & cart Entry into the Marriott Thailand Golf Classic Tournament cocktail party at the Marriott in Pattaya On course lunch & drink at every course Nightly drinks at the tournament bar during the tournament Gala Tournament prize presentation dinner & drinks at the Marriott Resort Tournament players gift pack including, polo shirt, cap and balls All ground transfers, from airport to hotels and golf Richard Ellis tournament and tour director

roots of the game. The club has a broad policy of ‘no 3 or 4 balls’. Aldeburgh is a two-ball course, and promotes foursomes (alternate shot) regarded by many as the finest form of the game. A foursome usually takes no more than 3 hours, so a round of singles and a foursome can easily be played in a day, even at weekends.

There is a green fee specifically for foursomes players. If you are fortunate enough to be invited, by a member, into the clubhouse ‘Smoke Room’ be sure you have removed your spikes, combed your hair and brought with you a button up jacket, collar and tie. From its early days Aldeburgh was started by a husband and wife and both were allowed to play the

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Make up your team “one Professional and three Amateurs” or we can put you into a team

Playing Aldeburgh also takes some links style of play and cunning. You stand on the tee or the fairway and you can almost sense the type of shot the hole is suggesting. Also close to the coast, a fierce wind can drastically change the course, but on a fine summers day, it is a delight – presented impeccably. Visitors are welcome to play the Championship Course on weekdays and weekends throughout the year, subject to sight of a handicap certificate and availability of tee times. •

other eVentS

‘InternatIonal Pro-am & teams tournament’ natadola Bay Golf Course + denarau Golf & raCquet CluB over $130,000 In ProfessIonal PrIze money & amateur PrIzes

5 Nights luxury accommodation at Sheraton Fiji Resort 4 Rounds of Pro-Am Tournament Golf Cocktail parties - Daily breakfast - Daily lunch Gala banquet dinner - Great entertainment- Nightly drinks Ground transport - Golf carts - Player’s gift pack.

course since it opened in 1884. Women members have continued to be very welcome and form an important part of the club, right to this day.

air new Zealand Pro-aM

sheraton fiji & natadola Bay may 27 - 31 from $1394.00

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Extra days, If you are looking to spend more time in Thailand sightseeing or play more great golf courses we can tailor a package to suit your requirements

full inforMation & entry forMS online or Phone riChard elliS (over 20 years in Golf event and tour business) Phone on +64 21 989 996 or eMail richard@pacificgolf.co.nz

www.PaCifiCGolf.Co.nZ November 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

15

Golf, big game... to (left), Steve Allerton GOLF AND GAME: Judy On tched by a pod (centre) and John Onto wa ek golf course Cre d of hippopotami at Leopar in South Africa.

September 17 to October 3, 2015.

Bob and Lucy love Africa and spend two months a year exploring and seeking out new and exciting adventures for their guests.

and gorillas David Newbery

T

HERE is nothing quite like going to Africa to view amazing wildlife and play golf at some of the world’s best golf courses the mysterious continent has on offer.

Sometimes you can play golf and view the big game at the same time.

A few holes later, the gallery was a kaleidoscope of giraffes.

Imagine the excitement a group of Aussie golfers must have felt when they came across a pod of hippo near a green at Leopard Creek Golf Club – South Africa’s number one ranked golf course.

This and other awesome sights await golf travellers who join one of the legends of Australian golf and corporate organiser, Bob Stanton, and his wife Lucy on a 17-day/16-night Golf Game Tour from

Stay and play in marvellous Mildura

Stay and Play packages starting from $7450 pp Quote “Inside Golf” when booking to get the best available deal

Enquire about our Stay and Play packages which can be tailored to suit your needs and budget.

Mildura Golf Resort - Twelfth St, Mildura VIC 3500 T: 1800 011 471 E: reservations@milduragolfresort.com.au

www.milduragolfresort.com.au 16

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | November 2014

Just the other day, Bob, a wonderful raconteur, was waxing lyrical about a recent trip to the Rainbow Nation and whetting my appetite about next year’s South African adventure.

“I know, I know,” I say. “You are preaching to the converted.

“On my last visit to South Africa I was lucky enough to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo or rhino) and I even had a game of golf with the legendary Gary Player at Sun City where they play the Nedbank Challenge,” I tell Bob. Of course, Bob has his own African adventure stories and tells of his experiences playing alongside Gary Player,

BIG EASY: Golf travellers take time out to visit Ernie Els’ Big Easy Restaurant.

ON SAFARI: Bob an

d Lucy Stanton

LION AROUND: Safari travellers catch up with a couple of lions.

Gorillas in the mist Arnold Palmer and other greats in their prime.

Hearing Bob reminisce about his playing days in Australia, Europe and America – not to mention his golf and big game treks and his fishing expeditions to the Northern Territory and Arnhem Land – is captivating.

Did you know Bob Stanton organises fishing expeditions for more than 300 people annually? But that’s another story.

(If you’re into fishing talk to Bob or go to the website www.bobstanton.com.au).

This story is about golf, game and gorillas.

“What guests will experience is exciting game viewing at two of South Africa’s best safari lodges and five games of golf at the famous Links at Fancourt, Zimbali and the Jack Nicklaus-designed Pearl Valley course in Cape Town,” Bob said.

“It’ll be lots of fun for a small and intimate group of 12 couples (24 guests).”

The group will travel to private game

lodges andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp and andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge for the first six days.

It doesn’t take long for golf travellers to run out of superlatives after one of these trips.

Then it’s on to Zimbali, Fancourt (host of the 2003 Presidents Cup) and Pearl Valley near Cape Town for some spectacular golf, group tours and partners’ excursions.

“Magic,” said Phil and Margaret Dash, members of Manly and The Hills in New Zealand, who were part of the 2013 tour.

“Beautiful game lodges and fantastic safaris with spectacular golf courses. We look forward to doing it again.”

The trip and package highlights include all travel within South Africa (no visa or vaccinations required), fivestar accommodation, game drives, five games of golf at the best golf courses, golf tournament prizes, a group clinic and personal tips from Bob Stanton, tours to Knysna and Cape Town’s Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope and the magnificent wine region of Stellenbosch.

Of course, there are a number of planned functions including a welcome cocktail party, a farewell dinner and in between there is plenty of free time to catch your breath.

“The organisation was superb,” said Ray and Robyn Hare from Nelson Bay and Pennant Hills golf clubs. “The whole trip was seamless, game lodges and animal viewing outstanding plus scenic and challenging golf courses.”

The 2015 African Adventure costs $12,260 per person.

For more details or bookings contact Lucy Stanton on 0411 592 300 or email lucy@ lucystanton.com.au or go to the website www.lucystanton.com.au •

HOW would you like to get up close and personal with a band of gorillas in Rwanda or witness the great migration of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle as they go in search of fresh grass in Kenya and Tanzania?

Well, if you want to enjoy this lifechanging experience you can join Bob and Lucy Stanton’s 20-day/19-night tour of East Africa from August 2-21, 2015.

“This is a very special tour and we only take five couples,” Bob said.

“Getting up close and personal with a family of mountain gorillas is exhilarating and the great migration is breathtaking.”

The trip also includes mingling with orphaned elephants as well as other wildlife viewing in the Serengeti.

The tour ends with a few days in exotic Zanzibar.

For further details, see main story.

November 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

17

Game for Gnu Adventures?

I

f you’re looking for an authentic wildlife experience, there could be no better environment on the planet than South Africa’s Kruger National Park. For sheer variety of wildlife and population sizes, Kruger is justifiably top of the list. While many private game parks are nothing short of zoo exhibits, Kruger provides a very real wildlife experience and part of the excitement is the ‘unscheduled’ nature of the big 5’s appearances! They are totally in the wild.

With nearly two million hectares (almost five million acres) of unfenced

African wilderness, you can view your fill of freely roaming mammals and other endangered species. While birdies may be hard to come by on the course, bird watchers will be thrilled to know there are over 500 bird species to discover in Kruger.

From the moment you walk through one of the nine entrances at Kruger, you are at one with your environment, sharing and experiencing at the same level exactly as the wildlife are experiencing it. You get the feel of power and earthiness in this exciting

environment. It’s full of noise, smells, movements, light and shade, all tell-tale signs that you are not alone.

The guides and trackers are your best friends on these tours – they have all the experience and knowledge to move around the Park in safety and have an uncanny knack of tracking down the animals or spotting a well disguised leopard in the wild.

Even though 1 ½ million visitors come to the Park, its extensive size means you feel like you have the park to yourself, you may never see another vehicle. So the entire

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | November 2014

awesome splendour of the Park appears for your eyes only.

As a nature-loving golfer, you also have much to look forward to in South Africa as quality courses stretch from Pretoria to Cape Town. Imagine playing your round on the fringes of Kruger and having to wait for animals to make their way across the fairway; or losing a ball into the hazard on the Lost City course only to find that it is inhabited by crocodiles! Immaculately groomed parkland courses such as De Zalze combine with the sweeping ocean views and rolling fairways of Pezula to

make your South African golfing safari experience truly memorable.

Go Golfing run an annual tour to South Africa which includes entrance to Kruger National Game Reserve, a sunset safari and game drives with experienced trackers and nature guides. There are eight rounds on premier courses including the Gary Player course, home to the Nedbank Millions. Fancourt, Pezula, Pecanwood, Lost City, White River, Paarl and Atlantic Beach GC.

international destination. Travelling with a group of like-minded golfers, your affable Go Golfing host and knowledgeable local guides will ensure your South African golf and wildlife expedition is a ‘roaring’ success.

After 20 sell-out tours, South Africa is undoubtedly Go Golfing’s most popular

More information can be found at www.gogolfing.net.au •

Early bird offer extended to Inside Golf readers until 28 November 2014. South Africa Select Golf Safari 25 February – 13 March 2015; Golfer Package from $7,200 per person twin share, Non Golfer Package from $6,045 before 28 November 2014.

Early bird offer extended until 30 November for Inside Golf readers - save $720 per person!

November 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

19

New Zealand

golf and motorhome tours

F

ollowing the success of their innovative Murray River Magic program—where guests enjoy touring via luxury houseboats and experience unmatched camaraderie of this unique golf tour—Golf & Gourmet has launched a similar approach with their new Golf and Motorhome Tours in New Zealand.

equipped communal kitchens or BBQs, enjoying a glass of wine while recounting the days play and other activities.

The tours can be joined on specific departure dates where the program is operated as a Tag-a-Long Tour—where a tour leader leads the group—or can be taken by independent travellers.

Flexibility is the key so extending time in New Zealand or choosing a customised itinerary is part of the attraction of this series.

On all itineraries care is taken to ensure non-golfers also enjoy the attractions along the way.

New Zealand RV Sites are very well equipped and part of the camaraderie is cooking a group meal in the well-

Each couple in this tour are allocated a four-berth, self-contained Motorhome— equipped with a shower and toilet. A major advantage of this is being able to unpack once and having ample room for clubs.

Motorhome Holiday Parks are prebooked on powered sites at most locations, ensuring all of the comforts of home are available.

The South Island itineraries use Motorhomes for 7 nights until arrival in Queenstown where luxury apartment accommodation is provided with golf and airport transfers included. For non-group guests the option is available to retain the Motorhome or use apartments. The North Island itineraries use Motorhomes for the full itinerary.

FLY DIRECT TO AUSTRALIA’S BRAND NEW GOLF COURSE

CAPE WICKHAM

Golf with carts provided is included and pre booked at such courses as Clearwater, Terrace Downs, Jacks Point and Oreti Sands the most southerly 18 holes links course in the world.

Costs for this series is $3313 per golfer (Twin/Double share); $2448 Non-golfer (twin/ double share); and $5734 for a single golfer. Price includes Motorhome Hire, Golf Green Fees - with carts where available, RV Park Powered Site Fees and four-share 2BR/2BT Luxury Lake View Apartments in Queenstown for four nights.

9 Be one of the first to play the brand new, world class Cape Wickham golf course 9 Fly direct from Melbourne in just 30 minutes 9 Small group size - max 8 people 9 All inclusive of flights, accommodation, course fees, buggy and bag hire & ground transfers 9 1, 2 and 3 day options

Free call 1800 033 160 | airadventure.com.au | info@airadventure.com.au 20

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | November 2014

For more Information: Golf & Gourmet Fred Sparksman Tel: 0414 799 722 email: fred@golfgourmet.com.au website: www.golfgourmet.com.au

Combine Barnbougle + Cape Wickham in one trip

Murray River

Magic 2015

G

olf & Gourmet have launched the new 2015 program with more departures, new innovations and a new vessel from All Seasons Houseboats.

The interest in the Murray River Magic has blossomed with calls being received from across Australia and New Zealand. Where else could one stay on board a luxury houseboat with ensuite cabins which are air conditioned and each with a flat screen television for guest comfort.

And participate in preparing fine aged eye fillet steak on the upper deck BBQs

over a glass of local wine. Playing the fine golf courses along the Murray and enjoying the camaraderie that only a trip like this can produce.

A new innovation will be continued through 2015 with River Skipper Leon Wagner escorting each trip. Leon has a vast knowledge of the Mighty Murray River with stories regaled around every bend as he has Captained River Paddle Steamers and Vessels in a long professional career.

All Seasons Houseboats is launching a new six-cabin vessel in November 2014, Golf & Gourmet has secured

By using a food kitty system where each guest contributes $120 per person to the costs of food on board which generally includes four evening meals, seven breakfasts and lunches for golf, as well as nibbles most evenings this is exceptional value. If there are funds left over they are given back or if a little more is needed then each person contributes.

Prices for 2015: Golfer: $1482 per person twin/double share Golfer Single Cabin: $2182 per person Non Golfer: $1237 per person twin/double share

DEPARTURE DATES 2015: 14 April; 12 & 19 October; 09 November Group space available for other dates on request More information Fred Sparksman – Golf & Gourmet – email: fred@golfgourmet.com.au Tel: 0414 799 722 Web: www.golfgourmet.com.au

Wrest Point International Masters Golf Championship 11 - 16 January 2015 • • • • • • •

4 rounds of championship golf (2 rounds Royal Hobart, 2 rounds at Tasmania Golf Club) Welcome dinner including beverages and entertainment 19th Hole celebrations each night at Wrest Point Gala presentation dinner, 3 course meal, dance band and beverages Golf club valet service Stylish tournament polo Discount vouchers for shopping, restaurants, entertainment and tourist attractions throughout Tasmania • Over $30,000 worth of prizes to be won

Golfer package from $589

Barnbougle Golf Challenge 17 - 23 January 2015

Proudly presented by Pipers Brook Vineyard • 6 nights accommodation at Barnbougle Lost Farm inc daily breakfast & golfer lunch • 4 rounds including buggies/trundles (2 at Barnbougle Dunes, 2 at Barnbougle Lost Farm) • Nightly 19th Hole including daily prizes • Welcome dinner & presentation dinner with beverages • Wine & cheese tasting and more....

T

OU D L O S

Tournaments open to male & female club golfers. Play with your own age and handicap.

Golfer package from $1,799 per person (twin share) +61 7 5536 8681 | info@gogolfing.net.au

# 1. FOR TOURNAMENTS

Beautiful Tasmania - an unforgettable golf adventure!

the Platinum Indulgence for the October and November departures in 2015. This state-of-the-art vessel will further enhance an already great value holiday.

November 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

21

An Island golf trip fit for a King A

ustralian golf circles are buzzing with excitement around the planned opening of the new Cape Wickham Golf Course currently under construction on King Island. Due to open in March 2015, the course—which is located on the northern tip of the island—will feature rugged coastlines, breathtaking scenery and a true linksstyle feel that is characteristic of seaside courses. Inside Golf has visited the Cape Wickham site, and we can attest that the location and surroundings have the potential to make this course one of the most exciting layouts in the region—and maybe even the world.

Golfers looking to play Cape Wickham need look no further than Air Adventure Australia -- a charter aviation company out of Melbourne. A family-owned business

in operation since 1977, Air Adventure specialise in high-end air safaris to the Australian Outback, Cape York, the Kimberley, Lake Eyre and Kangaroo Island, as well as golf-specific adventures to Tasmania and King Island.

They have recently announced some new King Island/Tasmania trips centred around the new Cape Wickham course.

The one or two-day Cape Wickham Direct tour gives you the option of either a day trip with a full round of golf, or overnight with two rounds of golf plus accommodation. Prices are $595 per person (Day Trip) or $880 per person (Overnight) and include airfares, golf and pull cart and transfers to/from airport. (Overnight package also includes accommodation in the township of Currie, King Island.)

For golf tragics looking to add even more excitement to their trip, Air Adventure also have a three-day Barnbougle + Cape Wickham tour, which allows you to play three of Australia’s most remote, exciting and highest ranking courses all in one easy trip. Pricing starts at $1790 per person, twin share (add $160 for single accommodation) and includes your private charter flight, two nights’ accommodation at Barnbougle Lost Farm in a premium Ocean View Suite, 38 holes of golf at Barnbougle/Lost Farm, 18 holes at Cape Wickham, pull cart and on-ground transfers.

Air Adventure takes care of all of the hassles, flying you to the doorstep of each course via their ultra-comfortable and modern Cessna Conquest II, a twin-prop jet featuring leather seating, climate

control and other amenities that make the trip feel like you are getting the “Rock Star” treatment. Tours depart from Essendon Airport (which features free parking), and with the added benefit of no security queues, no-hassle check-in and a quick flight time of around 45 minutes, you could be teeing it up in less time than it takes to just check your bags via a commercial airline. During a recent trip with Air Adventure, it was less than two hours from takeoff to tee-off. Now THAT’S a rock star trip!

Get your playing group of 4 or 8 together and Air Adventure will customise a departure to suit. For smaller groups get in touch for available options.

For more information: Air Adventure Australia, 1800 033 160. info@airadventure. com.au, www.airadventure.com.au •

6 NIGHTS

AFRICAN EXPERTS EST

22

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | November 2014

DEPARTURES 2015: 14 APRIL | 07 SEPTEMBER 12 OCTOBER | 09 NOVEMBER www.golfgourmet.com.au or call Fred 0414 799 722

Black Mountain Golf Club near Hua Hin, now expects more visitors year-round, especially during the April to November low season.

“We believe we can boost numbers from Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, China and Northern Europe. People are still discovering golf in Thailand. At first they wanted to discover the beaches and culture, but now golf is becoming a priority.”

Stacey Walton, the general manager of Banyan Golf Club, says there has been a significant rebound in tourism.

Thailand golf tourism rebounding

M

embers of Thailand’s Golf in A Kingdom marketing collective are expecting a strong high season as tourism to the kingdom recovers.

Advance bookings for the December to March peak season – when golfers take advantage of cooler temperatures, sunny days and superior course conditioning – are equal to previous years’ levels. A record of more than 700,000 foreign golfers visited Thailand in 2013 and with inbound international tourism now

rebounding, 2015 arrivals are expected to return to the 2013 peak.

“It is looking very positive now that Thailand’s political problems have been resolved, with certainty and stability returning to business and everyday life,” says Golf In A Kingdom program manager, John Carter.

“All our members are extremely confident the high season will be at least equal to last year, and maybe better.

International travellers have come to

“Golf rounds in August and September increased by eight percent and 15pc respectively over last year. This shows people again have the confidence to visit Thailand.

Black Mountain Golf Club near Hua Hin

realise Thailand is as safe, friendly and welcoming as it has always been and there is now no reason not to travel here.”

John Blanch, the general manager of Thai Country Club, says Thailand’s new government and prime minister have been generally well received.

Consequently, he is expecting a rebound in international bookings, which had dropped during and after political turmoil earlier in the year.

Harald Elisson, the general manager of

“Hua Hin has always been a safe place for tourists and infrastructure has improved, making the Royal town easily accessible by road from Bangkok. Hua Hin is emerging as a very popular golf destination and a preferred location for lifestyle and leisure.

“The recent Centara World Golf Championships, which attracted more than 500 golfers, was a massive success and next year’s event could increase to 750 participants. The forthcoming King’s Cup will also raise the profile of Hua Hin. The fact that Hua Hin is home to the King of Thailand embraces safety and security and makes it attractive for families.

There are also plans for new hotels and shopping facilities, which will add to the town’s appeal.”

More: www.golfinakingdom.com •

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS • 15 nights accommodation in boutique hotels and resorts • Breakfast Daily • 9 rounds of golf inclusive of cart at leading courses including Pebble Beach, Presidio, Spyglass Hill, Torrey Pines South, PGA West-Norman, Nicklaus & Stadium, Sonoma Country Club, Madaras Golf Club • Private wine tasting and winemakers dinner • Day tours and sight seeing as per itinerary including; Alcatraz, San Diego Cruise • Comfortable air conditioned coach • Welcome and presentation dinners, cocktail on arrival.

• Unique individual and team golf competition with prizes • Commemorative tour polo • Fully escorted by experienced Go Golfing tour host

Golfer package Non golfer package Single supplement

from US$10,895 per person (twin share) before 28 November from US$ 7,680 per person (twin share) before 28 November US$ 3,300

+61 7 5536 3280 | info@gogolfing.net.au

Go Golfing Travel PTY LTD is a member of IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators).

# 1. FOR ESCORTED TOURS

USA West Coast Swing Golf Tour 13 - 28 April 2015

November 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

23

stay&play

in sunny y Echuca-Moama on a 36 Hole Championship Golf Course

at Rich River Golf Club Resort

MID YEAR PACKAGE AVAILABLE JUNE-AUGUST 2015* 1 x night on-site accommodation 1 x day unlimited golf 1 x club voucher 1 x cooked breakfast

PRICES

Single $160pp Double $120pp Triple $110pp

MUST QUOTE

“DEAL1”

to book this golf package.

03 5481 3333 RICH RIVER GOLF CLUB RESORT TWENTY FOUR LANE, MOAMA NSW www.richriver.com.au

*Available 1st June - 31st August 2015. Subject to availability. Excludes Queen's birthday long weekend. Minimum two-night stay on weekends.

Prices subject to change without notice.

Tailor made packages also available upon request.

www.richriver.com.au