Inside Golf Travel December 2015

Issue 26 // Dec 2015

www.insidegolf.com.au

King Island open for business Tee off at The Links Kennedy Bay

Northern Delights Great golf along the NSW Mid to Far North Coast *****

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Make your next escape one you’ll never forget! Featuring a championship golf course, sunning views, luxury accommodation Terrace Downs has so much to offer, and there’s something for everyone! Contact us to plan your escape.

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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

Tourism boom predicteD for golf on King Island

Chief Writer: David Newbery E: david@insidegolf.com.au Contributor: Bill Colhoun E: ed@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: Megan Symington M: 0419 575 000 E: megan@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 Australia/New Zealand Sales: Lisa Coleman M: 0406 031 344 E: lisa@insidegolf.com.au

Ocean Dunes

A

n international tourism boom and worldwide golfing acclaim have been predicted for Tasmania’s King Island as its two highly anticipated courses, Ocean Dunes and Cape Wickham, open their doors to the public.

Ocean Dunes, on the west coast of the island, unveiled its front at the end of October, which coincided with the 18hole opening of Cape Wickham, on the northern tip of the island.

Ocean Dunes director and course architect Graeme Grant has compared King Island’s new courses to the famous

layouts on California’s Monterey Peninsula.

“I think we’ve got the opportunity to produce something like Cypress Point and Pebble Beach in the two courses down here,” Grant said. “With such spectacular links land and the opportunity to play so close to the coast, we have something reminiscent of what I’ve seen and played on over there.”

Golf Australia CEO Stephen Pitt said the flow-on effect from King Island’s emergence as a golf hotspot will be felt nationally.

“I think they will be absolutely mustplay destinations and I think that’s important in terms of golf tourism,” Pitt said. “I think it offers benefits for the whole of the country. Often those top-end courses are the hook that gets people over but they play a whole range of courses while they’re here.”

Grant has been living on King Island for two and a half years and echoed Pitt’s sentiments about the golf potential of the remote Bass Strait Island.

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Cape Wickham some sort of a Mecca for links golf in this country,” Grant said. “As people come down here and see the dunes, they’ve got to be encouraged to do something with them. I’ve been involved in golf for more than 50 years and came down here about four and a half years ago. When I got off the plane, all I could see was Scottish and Irish links land and it just kept going and it goes from the northwest tip to the southwest tip of the island. It really is incredible to think that people in Australia know so little about the potential of it for golf.”

The emergence of Ocean Dunes and Cape Wickham has some in the golf industry predicting Tasmania will surpass Melbourne’s famed sandbelt as Australia’s premier golf destination.

Pitt expected golf visitors to King Island to also spark a surge in international

visits to the famed courses of Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.

“I think it puts Tasmania in a really good position. Obviously, the courses at Barnbougle are rated so well and they will add to that and really make Tasmania a destination and hopefully some of that feeds on to the other clubs in Tasmania as well. I actually see courses being at that really pointy end of world ratings being a great hook for the whole country.”

The consensus from visitors to Ocean Dunes ahead of its opening has been overwhelmingly positive, according to Grant.

“To date, we’ve only had a few out but the response has been very, very encouraging. There have been people from all over the world come here to look at it.”

Grant - who spent 16 years as superintendent at famed Kingston Heath and pioneered the use of couch grass fairways on the Melbourne sandbelt - has opted for fescue grass on the fairways and tees at Ocean Dunes and bentgrass greens.

“You worry all the time about whether or not what you’re doing is going to be accepted. I prepared Kingston Heath for three Australian Opens and I had to deal with some pretty pedantic professional golfers over the years, but nothing has prepared me for designing, building and eventually maintaining a golf course on the edge of the Southern Ocean.”

Golfers at Ocean Dunes can expect to be greeted with traditional links golf weather.

“We’re in the middle of Bass Strait and some of the days are pretty bad but most of the year you get great weather.

You get a bit of wind, it won’t be unlike Barnbougle and it won’t be unlike the Mornington Peninsula. The encouraging thing for us is that people are travelling to play and are prepared to play in those links environments. People who go to those places really love to deal with the elements, as it was when the game started.”

Golfers at Ocean Dunes can experience nine holes for $65 and unlimited golf for just $100.

Ocean Dunes’ 18-hole opening is expected as early as February 2016.

Long-established air touring company Air Adventure ( golf.airadventure. com.au ) operates charter flights to King Island. Visit their website for prices and information. •

Stacey Arthur | www.itravel-au.com/tours/tours/south-african-golf-safari-2016 | www.itravel-au.com/tours/tours/the-masters-golf-tour-2016-1439777160 p: 02 42850711 | m: 0402 327 606 | e: stacey@itravel-au.com

December 2015 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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The coast with the most

NSW MID TO FAR NORTH COAST

Murwillumbah Golf Club A

Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club

B

Murwillumbah Golf Club

G

A

Bonville International Golf Resort

C

Ocean Shores Country Club

H

Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club

D

Byron Bay Golf Course

I

Kew Country Club

C

E

Ballina Golf and Sports Club

B

F Yamba Golf &

Country Club

Featuring pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and some of the Australia’s most spectacular scenery, the NSW Mid to Far North Coast is one of Australia’s premier locations for sports, festivals, music, dance and more. Of course, it is also home to some tremendous choices for the discerning golf traveller. From Port Macquarie to Tweed Heads, and everywhere in between, we highlight the most popular and unique courses the region has to offer.

D E

F

G

H

I

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2015

Murwillumbah Golf Club Murwillumbah Golf Club is arguably one of the best golf courses in Australia with its spectacular views and elevated greens it is sure to impress any level of golfer who comes to visit. Situated just 30 minutes south of the Gold Coast, Murwillumbah has a fully equipped club house with function rooms and an 18hole championship course, the perfect venue for your next outing.

Just far enough away from the crowds of the Gold Coast and Brisbane areas, Murwillumbah Golf Club is truly a hidden gem when it comes to golf. The layout

is unique with each hole possessing a different challenge with undulating fairways and greens it truly tests your game and makes your day thoroughly enjoyable. To truly take the challenge of Murwillumbah the club host a back marker challenge on the first Friday of each month which attracts a number of visiting golfers and members who love to take on the course at it full capacity. The club has 25 electric carts to hire along with an additional 20 push carts. The club also has a driving range with undercover hitting bays and teaching professional Graeme Trew always on hand for private or group lesson.

Whether you’re a once a year player or an avid golfer, Murwillumbah golf club will satisfy the thirst of anyone who knows the game.

The club also has catering facilities with excellent Australian and Asian style options from the Hot Wok and Grill.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Murwillumbah Golf Club 233 Byangum Rd Murwillumbah NSW 2484 (02) 66 721799 www.murwillumbahgolfclub.com.au

NSW MID TO FAR NORTH COAST

Byron Bay Golf Club

Byron Bay Golf Club As one of Australia‘s most popular tourist destinations, the award-winning Byron Bay Golf Club is helping put Byron Bay in the media spotlight.

Situated to the south of town, Byron Bay Golf Club occupies 48 hectares of land within 500m of the beach. With views to the lighthouse this Championship 18hole, par-72 layout has been transformed in recent years to now sit comfortably

in the Top 100 Public Access Course rankings. With a scratch rating of 74 and a slope of 137 off the Men’s back tees and 75 scratch rating and 133 slope off the Women’s tees it can be a real test of your golfing ability.

As testament to the course improvements, their Course Superintendent Shaun Cross, has recently won both state and national awards for “Excellence in Golf Course Management”

from the Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association (AGCSA).

The club has also hosted a PGA Legends Tour Championship 54 hole Pro-Am for the past eight years and the winners of the event such as Harwood, Baker-Finch and Senior all agree it is one of the best Regional Courses they get to play with arguably the best 328 couch greens going around. Byron Bay won the NSW PGA Legends Tour Pro-Am of the year in 2011.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Green fees: $45 for 18 holes, $79 per month for direct debit membership Byron Bay Golf Club 62 Broken Head Road Phone: (02) 6685 6470 www.byronbaygolfclub.com.au manager@byronbaygolfclub.com.au

BLUEMARKER

CHALLENGE Stay and Play Packages Play 18 holes of golf at Yamba Golf and Country Club Play 18 holes of golf at Maclean Golf Club Two nights accommodation at Yamba Aston Motel Lunch and cart fees included each day

18th DECEMBER • This Single Stroke event has been running since the mid 80’s.

• Champion of Champions is open to all past monthly winners.

• Time sheet will be either a 7.30am or a 12.30pm shot gun start

$30

ITORS FOR VIS S $13* R E B MEM s doe *Price e cart d not inclu

$250 per person Package is based on minimum of 12 people, twin share and is subject to availability

$49

*Conditi

18 HOLE PACKAGE FOR 2 INCLUDES TWIN SHARE ELECTRIC MOTORISED GOLF CART HIRE AND LUNCH ons appl

For bookings and enquiries call Yamba Golf and Country Club on 02 6646 2104 or email functions@yambagolf.com.au ~ www.yambagolf.com.au

y

*Conditions apply. Not available during competition, Saturday play and Sunday before 12pm and peak periods.

LIKE US

December 2015 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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NSW MID TO FAR NORTH COAST

Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club

Yamba Golf & Country Club

Yamba Golf & Country Club Recently voted Australia’s No 1 tourist town, Yamba is a unique beachside holiday and lifestyle experience suitable for all members of the family. Pristine beaches, lush national parks, beautiful waterways and plenty of leisure activities make Yamba a very special location for holidaymakers and residents.

If you enjoy a friendly social environment and the fun and competition of a great day’s golf, Yamba Golf & Country Club is just the ticket.

They are conveniently located just a five-minute walk from the centre of town,

and they have all of the latest facilities you’d expect from a modern social and sporting club.

From the clubhouse and new back deck, you can enjoy picturesque views of their championship 18-hole golf course and an abundance of native Australian flora and fauna whilst enjoying a cold beverage or two.

Their restaurant – SeaFire Steak and Seafood, is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner, offering a great menu with all of your favourites, and some superb blackboard specials on locally caught seafood.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Stay & Play packages available $250 twin share Yamba Golf & Country Club River St Yamba (02) 6646 2104 www.yambagolf.com.au reception@yambagolf.com.au

Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club Sitting near the beautiful sun-drenched beaches of the Queensland/NSW border is the picturesque Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club.

With accommodation in abundance and no shortage of shopping nearby it’s easy to see why this is one of the more idyllic and impressive golf courses in one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations.

Inside a stunning dedicated nature reserve lie the River Course and the West Course, both 18 hole courses are on 101 rolling hectares and were ranked in Australia’s top 100 Public Access golf courses in 2015.

For any golfer the 36 holes will challenge and test as it weaves from gently undulating to flat, wide fairways guarded by groves of well-established trees, and plenty of bunkers and water hazards to

Ballina Golf & Sports Club

An Unforgettable Golfing Experience Phone: (02) 6686 2766 | Email: admin@ballinagolfclub.com.au | Website: www.ballinagolfclub.com.au 6

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2015

NSW MID TO FAR NORTH COAST keep golfers’ minds right on their game.

Smack-bang in the middle of the River Course is a small rainforest, and you may come face-to-face with a goanna or the many species of bird life, generations of which have happily shared their lush riverside habitat with golfers.

To play a round at Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club is just a fraction of the cost of many Gold Coast courses and is available all year round.

The cost-friendly course also offers other great facilities like The Clubhouse which is perfectly situated with views overlooking the Tweed River. Along with great scenery, this fully licensed venue has a cafe, full club facilities, and a well-appointed Pro Shop, stocked to the rafters with everything a golfer needs and more.

After a challenging day on the course at Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club is one of Tweed’s most popular and busiest restaurants, Danny’s famous seafood buffet, ready to aid the heartiest of appetites.

So, it’s easy to see why for so many locals and tourists who visit the Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club they consider it one of the best.

MORE INFORMATION Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club Soorley Street, Tweed Heads South (07) 5524 4544 www.cooltweedgolf.com.au nicolej@cooltweedgolf.com.au

Kew Country Club

Kew Country Club Set amidst beautiful native gardens, with a player- friendly 18-hole championship style golf course and driving range, Kew Country Club is a delight for all players.

The Club has been undertaking some great continual improvements including seven new tees, removal of trees, extra mounding and nearly $100k of drainage and water management.

“From the moment you drive through the entrance, you start to realize the aim of the club’s governing body is to provide a great recreational facility for patrons to enjoy,” says Kew Country Club secretary

WELCOME TO AUSTRALIA’S ONLY ISLAND GOLF COURSE

at Nambucca Heads on the Coffs Coast of NSW. The 18 hole course located on Stuart Island is rated one of the most scenic courses on the North Coast of NSW, a true test of your golfing skills. The Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club venue surrounded by the picture perfect Nambucca River, is the sensational location for wedding receptions, conference venues, and function room facilities. The Island Restaurant at Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club is the ideal venue for family, social, function and corporate gatherings. Plus a fully equipped Pro Shop with sensational prices, lessons, cart & club hire.

Corporate Golf Days & soCial Group bookinGs

NAMBUCCA HEADS

ISLAND GOLF CLUB Stuart Island, Nambucca Heads 2448 GPS 153°0’10”E, 30°38’32”S Enquire (02) 6569 4111 Pro Shop (02) 6568 8172 secretary@namgolf.com • www.namgolf.com December 2015 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

7

NSW MID TO FAR NORTH COAST the clubhouse at Kew Country Club is only 500 metres from the Pacific Highway. If you are visiting the Mid-North Coast and are playing in the Port/Taree/Wauchope area, this course is a hidden treasure not to be missed.

MORE INFORMATION Kew Country Club Pro Shop on (02) 6559 4596 www.kewcountryclub.com.au

Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club LOCATED on the sub-tropical holiday coast, mid-way between Brisbane and Sydney, is the uniquely scenic Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club.

Surrounded by water, golfers will experience an exhilarating round of golf with the chance of seeing passing dolphins.

The birdlife is also a feature as pelicans, sea eagles and osprey soar overhead.

Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club manager Robert Dwyer.

Call in and have a social game of golf with friends, then finish with some refreshments at the bar, a great meal from Fairways Bistro, or simply relax in the air conditioned club house.

Kew Country Club also boasts three well-

8

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2015

appointed bowling greens, one natural grass and two synthetic, so no matter what the weather conditions are, you can be sure that your bowling will usually be on.

Kew Country Club has a well-appointed air conditioned function room that can cater for your next private function,

whether for twenty or 200 guests— perfect for weddings, birthday parties or private functions. A fully-stocked bar and a spacious dance floor with verandahs overlooking a beautiful golf course make this an ideal social venue.

Located 30 minutes south of Port Macquarie and 40 minutes north of Taree,

In the early-1990s, the golf course expanded to 18 holes and since then it’s gone from strength-to-strength.

It’s a flat, well-bunkered course with undulating greens but it’s the tightness of the layout that will test golfers of all abilities.

The challenging 389m par-4 16th hole is a great hole with out-of-bounds along the entire length of the left side of the fairway and some hazards down the right.

NSW MID TO FAR NORTH COAST If you do mess up on this hole, you can make amends at the 124m par-3 18th – the easiest hole on the course.

Locals say if you can play to your handicap at Nambucca Heads Island golf course, you’ll be doing well.

The Island Restaurant is the ideal venue for family, social or other gatherings.

Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club has a fully-stocked pro shop that offers some extremely attractive deals.

MORE INFORMATION Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club (02) 6569 4111 www.namgolf.com

Ocean Shores COUNTRY CLUB Located just north of Brunswick Heads, only 30 minutes south of Coolangatta and 15 minutes north of Byron Bay, the Ocean Shores Country Club is set on a hilltop boasting spectacular views over the Pacific Ocean and the Koonyum Ranges.

The golf course was designed over 40 years ago by the team of Bruce Devlin and Robert Von Hagge which comprises six par-3s, six par-4s and six par-5s with the longest being 556 metres.

The course has many unique features with the foremost being the enormous greens with the 5th green measuring 1100 square metres.

The lush fairways and pristine greens are set amongst natural flora and fauna

Ocean Shores Country Club with a background of bushland and sparkling lakes making it one of the most spectacular golf courses in Australia.

Visitors with a club handicap are welcome to play in the club’s competitions. Or if you are looking for a social game it would be best to take advantage of their Mid-week Package for $49 per player which includes 18 holes of golf, hire cart and lunch.

The last Friday of each month players from all along the coast attend the Clubs Blue Marker Challenge to test their skills.

Play to or better than your handicap in the ‘’Bluey’’ and you receive a dozen golf balls.

The Pro Shop have all the latest in golfing technology and equipment to enhance your game along with golf lessons with the club’s Pro Chris Graham.

Members and guests also have access to the club’s bowling greens, bistro, full bar & gaming facilities, function rooms and courtesy bus.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Ocean Shores Golf Course (02) 66 801 008 www.oceanshorescc.com.au

Present this voucher for

2 x players 18 holes social golf with a cart for

Call or email to book a time (Sunday to Friday)

233 Byangum Rd, Murwillumbah NSW 2484 ph (02) 6672 4200 email: golfshop@murwillumbahgolfclub.com.au

www.murwillumbahgolfclub.com.au December 2015 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

9

NSW MID TO FAR NORTH COAST

RESORT OF THE MONTH >

Bonville Golf Resort

By David Newbery

M

ENTION Bonville Golf Resort to golfers who have played a round or two there and their eyes light up faster than a lightning bolt.

That’s because Bonville’s golf course is Australia’s Augusta National, and is considered a “must-play” … and stay for that matter.

Traveller Wine and Wine Spectator Magazine.

those guests who enjoy group activities and the company of friends.

The championship golf course is stunningly beautiful and the impeccably manicured fairways and greens are set against an astonishing backdrop of colour and tall timber.

The accommodation is just a short, peaceful stroll to the clubhouse where you’ll find the restaurant and the pro shop, which is huge and caters for all golfers’ needs.

The course boasts magnificent flooded gum timber stretching skyward while Augusta has its tall pines.

The pro shop offers some wonderful logoed mementos from golf balls, ball markers, caps and hats to shirts and much more.

Bonville Golf Resort is an intoxicating, delightful affair and nothing can beat a facility for spoiling you shamelessly.

Little wonder golfers of all levels take the opportunity to play Bonville whenever the opportunity arises.

And that’s what you can expect at Bonville, which is located on the north coast of New South Wales, just 10 minutes from the coastal city of Coffs Harbour.

Peter McWhinney, a respected and much travelled Australian professional, has played golf around the world, but he loves Bonville.

The first thing you will notice is all the staff gives 100 per cent and every experience is truly a breath of fresh air.

He has described Bonville’s breathtaking setting as “the most beautiful golf course in Australia, if not the world”.

For more than a decade, Bonville has been voted Australia’s most beautiful mainland golf course. In recent years, Luxury Travel and Style Magazine rated it Australia’s best golf resort.

Bonville Golf Resort is the perfect place to play-and-stay. The resort’s 30-twinroom accommodation suites overlook the picturesque first fairway and are perfect for couples and groups.

It’s received Chefs “Hat” awards, best contemporary Australian restaurant awards, voted best restaurant in a resort five years in a row as well as picking up awards by Fine Wine Partners & Gourmet

The executive rooms include a king-size bed, plasma TV, en-suite with spa and a mini bar, of course.

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2015

The friendly, relaxed atmosphere of Bonville makes it particularly attractive for

Regulars will notice a new face at Bonville – that of teaching professional Richie Gallichan.

Since joining the facility, he has set up a teaching academy using Trackman technology, which is fast becoming a highlight for golfers visiting Bonville.

in position to hit the green in two.

Still, it can be a daunting experience as the green is flanked by the clubhouse and everyone will be watching.

The 404m par-4 12th is arguably the toughest hole on the course.

Longer hitters can attempt to hit a driver between the two bunkers on the left and the water hazard on the right, but the average golfer is better served playing safe.

It’ll leave you a longer shot to the green, but it avoids the hazard on the right.

This is one of the delights of playing Bonville – there is a variety of ways to play every hole.

The real challenge only begins if you try to be aggressive.

As a part of your golfing experience, every player is given a Bonville Golf course guide. It gives a brief description of each hole and highlights the preferred way to play each hole.

Almost every hole has that wow-factor, but the 346m par-4 second hole is a standout.

Bonville is not an overly long golf course, but you need to position your golf ball off the tee if you want success.

From the tee, there is a great view of what Bonville is about with the immensity of the flooded gums.

The 470m par-5 7th hole (off the blue markers) is a definite birdie opportunity and so is the 460m par-5 18th.

Apparently, it’s also the most photographed hole on the course.

At 18, a well-struck tee shot will put you

It’s a slight dogleg right with the second shot up hill to a small green.

The 4th and 15th are also magnificent golf holes.

NSW MID TO FAR NORTH COAST

One of the best things about Bonville is that the golf course has that intimate charm that gives the feeling you have the place to yourself. There are virtually no parallel holes and although there are other groups out there, you hardly ever see them.

The practice facilities are excellent, with a driving range and short game area that includes a chipping green, bunker and large putting green.

Play one round at Bonville and you’ll hunger for a second and third round and it’s exactly the same after dining at the resort’s award-winning Flooded Gums Restaurant.

It has an unmatched combination of setting, atmosphere, good service and excellent food and there’s a fine selection

of wines.

days, birthday parties or private dinners.

There is something for everyone when dining at Bonville whether fine dining by night in the Flooded Gums Restaurant or a more casual Brasserie-style meal by day.

The resort’s private function rooms can cater for up to 200 people for a seated dinner. It also offers numerous outdoor dining alternatives including on-course marquee options.

For larger groups, the resort can also provide private dining rooms and other menu offerings including a barbeque, set menu or buffet-style meal.

Guest can also enjoy a light or full breakfast and lunch at the resort where the service is five-star. This is undoubtedly dining par excellence.

Bonville Golf Resort is also Coffs Harbour’s leading function and event venue.

It has extensive experience in hosting large and small events including weddings, cocktail parties, corporate dinners, golf

Bonville Golf Resort is terrific fun, a great place to stay and certainly worth the green fee.

So, when next organising a trip away, think Bonville Golf Resort. Oh, and don’t send your family and golfing friends a postcard saying, “wish you were here”.

Instead, organise to take them with you because Bonville has a golf group manager, who has the expertise to deal with the needs of groups small or large.

signage, transfers, accommodation, in-room dining, on-course activities and more. It truly is a personalised experience worth pursuing.

All you need to do is provide the resort with your preferred travel dates for groups of eight or more and they will do the rest.

Mind you, if you want to take your wife or husband away for a quiet romantic golfing getaway that’s no problem, either.

BONVILLE GOLF RESORT North Bonville Road, Bonville, NSW. Telephone (02) 6653-4002 or pro shop (02) 6653-4544. www.bonvillegolf.com.au or pro shop www.bonvillegolf.com.au/onlineshop

The club will arrange tee times, cart

Bonville Golf Resort

For personalised service, attention to detail and the ability to plan a truly fantastic golf getaway for you and your friends, call our Groups Manager Taryna Mackie on 02 6653 4002 with your requirements and we will do the rest!

Why not add in a group lesson with our PGA certified teaching Pro? Bonville specific, Trackman and 9 hole playing lessons available.

W - bonvillegolf.com.au P - 1300 722 444 E - info@bonvillegolf.com.au

“Golf should be enjoyed with friends” December 2015 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

11

NSW MID TO FAR NORTH COAST

Ballina Golf & Sports Club

Ballina Golf and Sports Club SITUATED on the Far North Coast of NSW, less than an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast is the stunning Ballina Golf Course.

Known for its award-winning gardens, which are a visual delight for members and visitors alike, the layout is the “Garden Course” of the Northern Rivers.

The popular Ballina destination is an easy-walking, tree-lined course with lush fairways complemented with true and consistent greens that are a pleasure to putt on.

The area is fortunate to experience cooling ocean breezes in summer that definitely enhance your golfing experience.

Heavily steeped in tradition, the club proudly celebrated its centenary in 2008.

The Ballina Golf Club has hosted many outstanding champions including Greg Norman, Rodger Davis, Wayne Grady and Peter Senior just to name a few.

The recently renovated modern and air-conditioned clubhouse provides all the usual conveniences for members and visitors including full bar facilities, Keno, a well-appointed gaming lounge and quality Chinese and contemporary meals in the Asian Green Restaurant. Kiosk facilities are also available.

Access to Ballina has never been easier with regular flights for interstate and Sydney travellers. And it’s only a short drive from the Gold Coast and Brisbane.

Whether it’s for the day, a weekend or even longer, a visit will not disappoint.

The Ballina Golf and Sports Club provides an immaculate golf course that presents an enjoyable challenge for all levels of players. The course has been a hidden gem for far too long.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Ballina Golf and Sports Club (02) 6866-2766 www.ballinagolfclub.com.au admin@ballinagolfclub.com.au

Rivers Golf Tours

Rivers Golf Tours Most Australians are unaccustomed to golf presented as a genuine tour.

They generally travel to one location and stay for a period with courtesy bus services taking them to the golf course or courses. The downside to this type of arrangement is they only see a small part of the area they are staying in and the same people day in day out.

Rivers Golf Tours offer a completely different holiday. You actually travel each day to different areas of the 200 km stretch of the beautiful Northern Rivers area of New South Wales. Every day you meet someone different and as a fully-escorted guided tour you will

learn something about the area you may know nothing about beforehand. It is in fact an adventure that also includes some pretty impressive golf courses and the opportunity to sample some very good food.

Their Motto “EAT, STAY,PLAY, we take care of the rest” is as it states, so come join their tour and enjoy the whole way through as they present their wonderful Northern Rivers area of NSW.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Rivers Golf Tours 33Howard Crescent Ballina NSW Phone 0428185301 www.riversgolftours.com.au

Rivers Golf Tours Looking for a unique golfing experience for you and your friends?

Our guided golf tours showcase some of the most beautiful and high quality courses the Northern Rivers of NSW has to offer.

We specialise in customised tours for all occassions.

riversgolftours.com.au EAT.STAY.PLAY WE TAKE CARE OF THE REST

SCAN HERE TO LEARN MORE

For bookings and inquiries email:

riversgolftours@gmail.com

12

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2015

• $35 per person

The Links Kennedy Bay Signature hole #16, par-3

What makes it great: It’s a true links golf course of the highest quality that has been rated the third best public access course in Australia behind Barnbougle and Lost Farm in Tasmania.

If you want to experience links golf in the Scottish and Irish traditions in Australia there is nowhere better than The Links Kennedy Bay at Kennedy Bay, Western Australia.

The gently undulating Windsor Green fairways wind through sand dunes amongst western coastal wattle, grevillea, sedges and lilies. The excellent large Bent greens are all one would expect on a true links – firm, fast and true.

Running alongside the vast blue waters of the Indian Ocean, this beautifully manicured course, with its 115 pot-style bunkers with riveted faces, is a delight to play from the white tees and nothing short of a challenge both mentally and physically from the black tees.

So many holes at Links Kennedy Bay are risk and reward with the 307m par-4 12th the perfect example.

Down wind, the green is reachable off the tee but there is trouble around the green.

All the par-3s are a delight especially the 123m 16th named Wee Tap. It only has a tiny green with bunkers and swales and can be tricky.

The beautifully manicured course, which runs alongside the vast blue water of the Indian Ocean, is a delight to play off the white tees.

Course information: Architect/designer Michael Coate and Roger Mackay in conjunction with Ian Baker-Finch

Course length: Black 6385m; Blue 6107m; White 5832m; Red 5274m Slope Men black 132 – par 72, scr 73 Men blue 131 – par 72, scr 71 Men white 128 – par 72, scr 70 Women red 126 – par 72, scr 74 Women white 128 – par 72, scr 75

Amenities: The Links Kennedy Bay provides an outstanding combination of practice opportunities with a 300m driving range,

putting and practice bunker, grass practice tee and an excellent teaching area.

The range is open daily and golfers can purchase small or large buckets of golf balls.

The club’s modest clubhouse offers snacks, beverages and a full menu.

Special packages: The club offers several flexible golf packages ranging from 18 holes of golf in a shared motorised golf cart $75 per person (Monday to Friday) or $85 on weekends and public holidays.

Discounts for groups of 12 or more are available.

The Links Kennedy Bay Port Kennedy Drive, Port Kennedy WA 6172 Phone: (08) 9524-5991 Email: info@kennedybay.com.au Web: www.kennedybay.com.au December 2015 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

13

Unique golf getaways are fun

“to the max”

By BILL COLHOUN

A

LMOST everyone involved in the golf industry -- from superstar players to the most humble caddie -- admits to being driven by a “passion for the game”, but few could match the total enthusiasm of Golf To The Max travel entrepreneurs Kieran and Kristine McMahon.

Kieran, an AAA-rated PGA Member, in an amazing 20 years as a pro has experienced every aspect of golf from playing pro-ams across Australia to rubbing shoulders with the stars of the game at the US Masters.

His passion for golf is crystal clear in the name he chose for the ambitious Aussie play-and-stay and international tour business he teed off 20 years ago.

package including Horizons, Nelson Bay and Pacific Dunes; or a Central Coast package including Magenta Shores, Kooindah Waters and Shelly Beach.

McMahon and his wife Kristine, an A Grade golfer herself, have kept their passion for the game bubbling by also establishing other successful ventures.

Golf To The Max also operates the Hunter Valley Aqua Golf and Putt Putt. Situated in the beautiful Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Pokolbin Aqua Golf (which boasts a quality golf shop) is the No 1 activity in Hunter Valley Wine Country.

Golf To The Max can also host your next corporate or charity golf day/function.

Kieran prides himself on providing the extra personal service that many business days are lacking.

It is no surprise that the Golf To The Max success story stems from the convincing angle that golfers are dealing direct with an expert golf pro “on the inside” of the industry.

McMahon says the extra personal service that goes into a Golf To The Max package will make sure that you get treated like a local, even if you are only there for a couple of days.

The Golf To The Max business, based in NSW’s Hunter Valley near Newcastle, is smack-dab in the middle of one of Australia’s most popular wine and tourism regions and surrounded by golf courses.

Recent clients include Bimbadgen Winery (A Day On The Green Concerts), McLeish Estate Winery, Mercedes Benz Sydney and numerous charity organisations such as the Variety Club.

Groups can enjoy a Hunter Valley package including Cypress Lakes, The Vintage and Crown Plaza; a Port Stephens

A typical golf day can have from as little as four players through to capacity fields of more than 240 players. Regardless of the

International and domestic golf travel specialists

numbers, the client can be sure of securing great green-fees discounts and many value add-ins such as wine tasting and other oncourse activities.

“Our Play-and-Stay Packages offer the best golf courses and a variety of accommodation options,” McMahon boasts.

“We can secure you the best-value deals whilst ensuring you still receive the little extras.

“As the leaders in Play-and-Stay Golf Packages in the Hunter Valley Wine Country, we have been organising the best-value golf trips possible for more than 20 years.”

“For example a group of couples on a golf getaway can stay at any one of three golf and spa resorts, play up to three courses and enjoy great food-and-wine options with an optional golf clinic to save a few strokes.

“The boys’ trips will often consider the options of a resort, motel or a pub stay, with transfers to and from golf. However, importantly, we understand the need to find the right watering hole after golf, where the beer is cold and you can enjoy a punt or some live music.”

With that in mind, Golf To The Max definitely sounds like fun to the max!

More: www.golftothemax.com.au

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

2015 2016 ExtENd your goLf HoLidAy iN BANgkok 1 frEE rouNd At SuwAN gC (May-SepteMber)

Pattaya

$1,180 4 Star Page 10 Hotel $1,525 5 Star Marriott Hotel • • • • •

PAttAyA 1 FREE RouNd BuRApAhA GC

6 Night’s accommodation & daily buffet breakfast 4 rounds of golf with carts & caddies each round Laem Chabang, Siam Plantation, Siam Old and St Andrews All private transfers airport, golf and hotel in an air

conditioned modern van English speaking driver and assistance throughout tour

HUa HIN $1,125 4 Star Amari Hotel $1,285 5 Star Hilton Hotel • • • •

huA hiN 1 FREE RouNd BANyAN GC

6 Night’s accommodation & daily buffet breakfast 3 rounds of golf with carts & caddies each round Black Mountain, Majestic Creek and Springfield All private transfers airport, golf and hotel in an air conditioned modern van English speaking driver and assistance throughout tour

PHUKEt

$1,745 5 Star Angsana Laguna Hotel $1,585 4 Star Nap Hotel Patong • • • • •

6 Night’s accommodation & daily buffet breakfast 3 rounds of golf with carts & caddies each round Red Mountain, Blue Canyon and Laguna CC All private transfers airport, golf and hotel in an air

conditioned modern van English speaking driver and assistance throughout tour

All tours based on low season 8/5/2016 – 30/09/2016. Prices are also based on minimum 4 golfers.

Surcharges apply for weekend golf in Pattaya Gimme Golf provides bonus rounds at Golf resorts in Pattaya, Hua Hin and Phuket until our allocation of 180 rounds is complete for 2016.

14

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2015

phukEt 1 FREE RouNd LoCh pALM GC

Quick flights: Two of the Murray’s hidden gems, only an hour away!

Thurgoona Country Club Resort

A

recent report by the Australian Golf Industry Council revealed that the Murray River region is the most frequently visited golf destination by the core golf tourist in Australia. And for good reason, with spectacular weather, picturesque surroundings and some truly memorable golf, the area has something for players of all levels.

At the top end of the Murray is mighty Mildura. While it may seem a world away

from the major cities, Mildura is, in truth a short one-hour flight from Melbourne.

The airport has benefitted from a recent multi-million-dollar upgrade, thus making the journey a quick and comfortable endeavour for the golf traveller from Melbourne, Sydney or Adelaide. Indeed, following a quick morning flight, golfers will have plenty of time to get to any one of Mildura’s fantastic golf courses for lunch and a warm-up before tee-off.

A feature course just over the border from Mildura is the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club, overlooking a magnificent stretch of the Murray River in the township of Dareton, NSW. If you’ve never visited Coomealla, be prepared to be surprised. The course is a massive hit with golfers “in the know” from Adelaide, and we can see why, as Coomealla is as good as any course in the region. Nestled on the banks of

the Murray, the fabulous golf course provides a test for any golfer. The greens are true, large and welcoming, while the tranquillity of the course is unmatched.

If your driver is misbehaving, you can easily hit iron off the tee in most cases and still have reasonable chances for pars or birdies. There are also a variety of risk/reward options which will truly reward the big, accurate drives. All told, Coomealla is a cracker of a course, and we

Traditional Golf Package

Championship Golf Package

2 x Nights Accommodation 1 x Round of Golf at Nelson Bay From: Twin Share - $230 per person Quad Share - $180 per person

2 x Nights Accommodation 1 x Round of Golf at Nelson Bay 1 x Round of Golf at Pacific Dunes From: Twin Share - $340 per person Quad Share - $305 per person

Packages are subject to availability at time of booking and exclude all long weekends, public holidays and Xmas school holidays.

THE LANDMARK NELSON BAY Reservations: (02) 4984 4633 | Freecall: 1800 200 755 | Group Consultant: (02) 4984 8963 | Fax: (02) 4984 4677 Email: res@landmarknelsonbay.com.au | Groups Email: groups@landmarknelsonbay.com.au 16

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2015

highly recommend you check it out if you are in the area.

A great offering by the club is the free houseboat mooring sites. So for those who partake in the great organised houseboat tours of the Murray, you can find yourself right on the doorstep of Coomealla.

Alternatively, as part of the Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club’s expansive array of facilities, their resort provides a range of accommodation to suit everyone’s needs, from superbly presented motel accommodation, self-contained cabins, drive-through caravan sites or even tent sites.

The driving centre of these fabulous facilities is the Main Club, providing the latest in NSW Club amenities with a reputation for high standard of service and atmosphere. The club offers club meals, KENO, bowls and more, making it an ideal spot for the “Annual Golf Weekend” or casual golf adventure.

More information: Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club Limited.

Dareton NSW 2717. Phone: 1800 854 737 or (03) 5027 4737.

Email: resort@coomeallaclub.com.au.

Website: www.coomeallaclub.com.au At the other end of the Murray, an hour’s flight from Sydney sits the beautiful Thurgoona Country Club Resort, offering golfers a mature Championship golf course located only 10 minutes from Albury.

Designed by renowned professionals

Coomealla Memorial Sporting Club Peter Thomson and Mike Wolveridge, the par 72 18-hole Championship Course plays to 6,365m from the back tees. Several tee options ensure a good test for any level of golfer. All 18 holes have recently been replaced with beautiful Santa Ana Couch grass, while the overall condition of the course has been improving rapidly. A true yearround course, Thurgoona features mature gum trees, large undulating bent grass greens, strategically placed bunkers and enough water to make even the most

experienced golfer think twice. A full length driving range is open year round with grass tees and great synthetic turf.

There’s more than just golf, however.

They offer 16 championship tennis courts, a 26 room resort with spa, sauna and swimming pool, a fully licensed modern club with conference and function facilities, a bistro, coffee shop and bar with the best prices around. Other facilities include a fully-stocked pro shop, driving range, golf tuition, hire carts, hire clubs, room service, children’s area, TAB,

keno and more.

Stay and play packages are available for any sized group and include one round of 18-holes for each night’s accommodation, continental breakfast (hot breakfast option available) and a dinner voucher for your evening meals.

More information: Thurgoona Country Club Resort. Phone: 02 6043 1411, Pro Shop Phone: 02 6043 1902, Email: golf@thurgoonaresort.com.au, Website: www.thurgoonaresort.com.au.

www.golfgourmet.com.au or call Fred 0414 799 722

7 NIGHTS Golfers ✤ $1482 pp twin share Non Golfers ✤ $1237 pp twin share

$1482 are)

(pp twin sh

DEPARTURES 2016: MARCH 15, APRIL 18, SEPTEMBER 5 & 12, OCTOBER 17 For bookings deposited aFter 01 January 2016 the prices will be: golFers: $1540 pp twin share & non golFers $1295 pp twin share

www.golfgourmet.com.au or call Fred 0414 799 722 December 2015 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

17

It’s high time for a Golf & Gourmet adventure King Island is also the perfect Golf & Gourmet destination, with seafood, local cheeses and locally-grown produce all prepared for you to enjoy.

Golf & Gourmet has released packages that only visit King Island and have the option to go any day with the scheduled airlines or use the special flights from Essendon Airport to and from King Island on the specific dates featured on the website.

Ocean Dunes, King Island

KING ISLAND & BARNBOUGLE Tasmania has added even more wow factor to their golf product, with King Island’s Cape Wickham course fully operational, while the Ocean Dunes course is set to open their second nine holes in February 2016. So there is no

better time to experience this new golf destination.

Designed by Mike DeVries, the spectacular Cape Wickham has holes heading to all points of the compass. The course also heads inland among sand dunes and limestone outcrops so that

each hole has individual character.

Ocean Dunes follows the coast and can be very tame on a calm day but a monster when the wind blows. Each hole features four tee boxes and provides ample landing areas, ensuring it is always an enjoyable experience.

Golf & Gourmet has also combined King Island with Barnbougle to establish a 7-night package, staying at the Island Breeze Motel on King Island and Barnbougle Lodge located at the Lost Farm course. Within this package guests play all four courses with time to enjoy the local attractions, participate in other activities or simply play more golf.

Flights are not included in this package as the combinations can be used to visit either Barnbougle or King Island first. Golf & Gourmet is there to assist in planning what works best for each person.

JOIN HERITAGE GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB FOR JUST $2000*!

Are you planning your next group golf trip?

Our golf packages can be tailored to suit your individual or group requirements with our extensive range of golf course and accommodation partners We specialise in customised group tours for all types of golf travel

• Club Members • Social Clubs • Corporate Events GROUP BOOKINGS & INQUIRIES National Travel Desk: Tel 1300 124 220 email: info@greatgolfgetaways.com.au

www.greatgolfgetaways.com.au 18

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2015

The Heritage Golf and Country Club is considered one of the premium multi course clubs in Australia. It offers its members two championship golf courses, Great practice facilities including chipping, bunkers, full range with targets and putting with free practice balls for members and guests. As a member of this exclusive club you also get the use of the retreat which has two tennis courts, swimming pool, sauna and fully equipped gym.

Call now for information: Phone: Paul Williams (03) 97603135 E-mail: pwilliams@hgcc.com.au | www.hgcc.com.au

Long Tanh Golf Club, Vietnam Prices for the King Island Experience are $902 per person twin share, while the King Island & Barnbougle package is $1598 per person twin share.

Marin in Hue and the Silk Path Hotel in Hanoi. Plus the fantastic hospitality of Bhaya Cruises on Ha Long Bay adds just another experience to this tour.

Prices will likely increase as King Island becomes better known as a great golf destination, so Golf & Gourmet strongly suggest that you book it now and enjoy this excellent value.

Touring is imaginative and includes a full day tour of Hue, a walking tour of Hoi An and a cyclo tour of the old city in Hanoi. The cruise on the World Heritage listed Ha Long Bay is a real highlight.

VIETNAM, SOUTH TO NORTH Vietnam is the new hot destination in Asia and has a thriving golf scene.

This tour has a great balance of golf and touring ensuring many wonderful experiences from arrival into Saigon to departure from Hanoi. Four-star hotels with full breakfast are included throughout the tour including the Duxton in Saigon, Novotel in Danang,

To ensure you are well looked after and can learn along the way, your tour is escorted throughout by a local guide, with specialist guides through significant locations and attractions. This adds to the enjoyment and learning about the various locations and about Vietnam in general.

Golfing in Vietnam includes carts and caddies, making golf a pleasure to play with local knowledge provided by these great people. Listen to their hints as this

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam will save you many shots along the way.

Golf in Saigon is at Vietnam Golf & Country Club and Long Tanh Golf Club, in Hue at the Faldo designed Laguna Lang course and in Danang at Montgomerie Links and Danang Golf Clubs. Previous participants in this itinerary say the golf in Hanoi was the best at King Island Golf Resort and Van Tri Golf Club. There are all very different courses and conditions to keep the golf program interesting and enjoyable.

Meals included are full breakfast each day, lunch on Day Six during the tour of Hue and dinner on board Bhaya Cruises, Ha Long Bay. The price for the tour is $3980.00 pp twin share. Flights are not included in the tour cost, allowing guests to choose which airline or route to suit Frequent Flyer affiliations, visiting friends in Asia or

to extend the trip to other destinations.

Golf & Gourmet can assist with flights if necessary and refer you to a Travel Agent to make your bookings if required.

Fred Sparksman, the Principal of Golf & Gourmet was so impressed by the trip reports submitted by the group who travelled on this itinerary in 2014 that he will participate with this group in 2016.

For more information on these or any of the Golf & Gourmet world-wide tours:

GOLF & GOURMET 12 BUDGEREE STREET, TEA GARDENS NSW 2324 Phone: 0414 799 722 Website: www.golfgourmet.com.au Email: fred@golfgourmet.com.au

December 2015 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

19

Pro-Ams and golf adventures to

Hawaii, Fiji and Thailand

A

ustralian born golfer Richard Ellis was once a leading tournament professional. These days Richard is the owner of the very successful New Zealand based golf management, tour and event company Pacific Golf Management, he has over 25 years’ experience running golf tours, international amateur and professional tournaments around the world.

Richard has an impressive 2016 golf holiday and tournament program to Hawaii, Thailand and the Pacific Islands.

Mauna Lani, Hawaii

Perhaps you enjoy the world-class resort courses and magnificent beachfront hotels in Hawaii or traveling to Thailand and challenge yourself playing some of the best championship courses in Asia? Maybe closer to home would suit, with a fun pro-am tournament in Fiji or the excitement of playing in the South Pacific’s biggest four round pro-am event with over $130,000 to be won in amateur prizes and professional prize money?

Best of Hawaii Golf & Hawaii International Golf Week (20 August to 1st September) the big Island of Hawaii is a 30-minute flight from Honolulu. There are seven world-class golf course within 15 minutes’ drive of the magnificent Hapuna Beach Hotel at Mauna Kea Resort where you will spend seven nights in an ocean view room.

You don’t have to be a great golfer to join in the fun of these tours and tournaments and there is always plenty of activities for the non-golfing partners , if you enjoy playing fantastic golf courses staying at top notch resorts and hotels and having a great time, maybe one of

You get to play five rounds on the best of these great course and there’s a day where you can sharpen your skills at the golf school run by PGA professionals (all included in the cost.) The four-round tournament is played in different divisions for women and men, great prizes, nightly

the following tours will suit you.

2016

For those who wish to spend more time in golfing paradise, you’ll take a short flight to the island of Maui, spend four nights at the beautiful Westin Resort & Spa on Kaanapali Beach and a round of golf at the Plantation course at Kapalua. Home of the PGA tour’s tournament of Champions.

To finish the trip it’s a short flight back to Honolulu and the final night of the tour is at the famous Waikiki.

Starwood Golf Classic Fiji (June 7th to 11th) The South Pacific’s biggest pro-am tournament with over $130,000 in pro prize money and amateur prizes. There are amazing individual and teams prizes for

Golf Tours

Special Tour Package

The Tournament Package

• • • • • • • • •

• 2 nights accommodation at the Westin Grande Hotel in Bangkok • 4 nights accommodation at the Marriott Resort & Spa Pattaya • 4 nights accommodation at the Hilton Resort & Spa in Hua Hin • Daily full buffet breakfast • 7 rounds of golf at championship courses in Thailand including your own caddy & cart • Entry into the Thailand Golf Classic • Tournament cocktail party at the Marriott in Pattaya • Nightly drinks at the tournament bar during the tournament • Tournament prize presentation dinner & drinks at the Marriott Resort • Tournament players gift pack including shirt & cap • All ground transfers from airport to hotels and golf courses

• • • •

BEST OF HAWAII GOLF TOUR 3 ISLANDS - 13 DAYS August 20th - September 1st 2016

drinks, cocktail party and a fun tournament dinner to finish.

the amateurs. You will have a professional in your group for all four rounds of the tournament, play two rounds at Natadola Bay and two rounds at Denarau. Five star accommodation at Sheraton Fiji, opening cocktail party, nightly drinks at the tournament bar, final night banquet and entertainment fantastic value all-inclusive package. Get in quick: this event sells out every year.

Air New Zealand Fiji Pro-Am (May 25th – 29th) Come and play the 20th anniversary of this fun pro-am tournament.

You don’t have to be a great player, just have an official handicap. Enjoy three rounds of golf, one day at the fantastic Natadola Bay course and two rounds in the fun pro-am tournament at Denarau Golf Course. Excellent amateur prizes, Sheraton Fiji Resort accommodation, two cocktail parties and the famous final night theme dinner.

Thailand Championship Tour (March 30 –April 9 ) This is the real golf enthusiast tour: seven rounds in 10 days on courses voted best in Asia. Five star accommodation in Bangkok, Hua Hin & Pattaya, great competition plenty of side bets.

Go To www.pacificgolf.co.nz for full information or email richard@pacificgolf. co.nz •

7 nights at five star Hapuna Beach Hotel & Spa, ocean view rooms 4 nights at five star Westin Maui Resort & Spa • 1 night at Hawaiian Prince Hotel Waikiki Full buffet breakfast included daily 6 Rounds of golf including cart on world class course , Mauna Kea, Hapuna, Mauna Lani North Mauna Lani South and Kapalua Plantation course Ranges balls before play each day • Entry into the Hawaii International Golf Week tournament 1 day golf school before the tournament including PGA professional clinics and individual lessons Welcome function at Hapuna Beach Hotel Nightly drinks, one hour each night at the tournament bar during the tournament.

Player gift pack including tournament logo polo & cap valued at over $130 Tournament prize presentation dinner and drinks • Great prizes Full tournament & event organisation by Pacific Golf Management All transport to and from the golf courses plus Airport to Hotel return transfers All tax’s on accommodation, golf, meals and drinks included in the package

PLAYERS PP US$3951.00 (NON-PLAYERS US$2854.00) TWIN SHARE

THAILAND CHAMPIONSHIP TOUR Pacific Golf Cup March 30th - April 9th 2016

The Tournament Package

STARWOOD GOLF CLASSIC - FIJI Natadola Bay & Denarau Golf Course June 7th - June 11th 2016

• 5 nights twin share accommodation at Sheraton Fiji Resort, Denarau Island • Return airport / hotel transfers from Nadi International Airport • Daily full breakfast • 4 rounds of golf in the Pro-Am including carts and range balls daily • Daily lunch and on course drinks during tournament play • Gala Welcome Cocktail Party • Nightly drinks in the tournament bar (during the tournament) • All transport from Hotel to golf courses during the tournament • Player gift pack valued at $150.00 • Over $130,000 in Prize money and Prizes • Final night Gala Banquet dinner, drinks and entertainment

PLAYERS PP TWIN SHARE $AUD1698.00 - $NZ1889.00

COST PP TWIN SHARE $AUD3147.00 - $NZ3496.00 The Tournament Package

AIR NEW ZELAND PRO-AM - FIJI Natadola Bay & Denarau Golf Course May 25th - May 29th 2016

• Four nights deluxe twin share accommodation at the 5 star Sheraton Fiji Resort • Daily full buffet breakfast, Return transfers from Nadi Airport to the Sheraton Fiji Resort • One round of golf at Natadola Bay course including, carts, range balls, coach transfers, lunch and drinks • Pro-Am tournament entry package, including two rounds with a professional at Denarau golf course, carts & range balls before play • On course food and beverage and post round drinks during the tournament • Player’s gift pack, including tournament logo shirt, cap & Sulu Shoot Out golf wear • Fantastic prizes, Two cocktail parties and Sweepstakes evening • Invitation to the Grand Finale tournament theme banquet dinner & live entertainment • Theme costumes for the final night dinner

PLAYERS PP $NZ1654.00 (NON-PLAYERS $NZ1117.00) TWIN SHARE

www.pacificgolf.co.nz 20

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2015

Terrace Downs named

Portugal named world’s best golf destination

Best Golf Hotel

Portugal has led winners at the World Golf Awards Gala Ceremony 2015, taking the title of World’s Best Golf Destination for the second year in succession.

Australia’s Go Golfing Travel took top spot for Oceania’s Best Golf Tour Operator, while New Zealand’s Clearwater Golf Course and Terrace Downs Resort were named Oceania’s best golf course and best golf hotel, respectively.

Host Steve Rider presenting the Best Hotel award to Terrace Downs General Manager Koji Kawamata

Partial list of winners: WORLD World’s Best Golf Destination Portugal

T

errace Downs Resort has been named as the winners of the Best Golf Hotel 2015 for New Zealand at last month’s annual World Golf Awards held in Algarve, Portugal.

World Golf Awards voters choose Terrace Downs Resort as the winners of this category over other golfing destinations in New Zealand.

“It is a great honour to win this award, we are all very proud that our hard work has been recognised at this level,” said Terrace Downs Resort General Manager Koji Kawamata.

Terrace Downs Resort is situated in the spectacular High Country in Canterbury, New Zealand with Mt Hutt as its backdrop. It’s only a one-hour drive from Christchurch International Airport, which makes it secluded yet accessible for National and International guests.

They offer Luxury accommodation with spectacular views, a round of golf on one of New Zealand’s top courses, delicious meals and exciting activities ranging from horseback riding to skydiving and the opportunity to pamper yourself or your partner in the indulgent day spa.

Winning the award means a lot for the future of Terrace

Downs Resort; over the last couple of years since the new owners purchased the Resort, they have been focussed on improving and maintaining the golf course to a high level, improving the standards of the culinary options, and working on improving the standard of the resort on whole.

They have plans in motion that will benefit all future guests that visit the resort.

Just this year Terrace Downs Resort has increased its brand awareness in New Zealand by sponsoring the New Zealand Men’s Davis Cup Team and supporting other local Tennis organisations, and as a result they plan to improve the Tennis facilities at the Resort early next year.

This is also a great achievement for the Canterbury area with Clearwater Golf Course also winning the Best Golf Course award.

Having won this award, Terrace Downs Resort hopes it will increase the awareness of Canterbury Golf on a more global stage and attract more visitors from further afield, so they can experience the beauty that New Zealand offers.

World’s Best Golf Course St Andrews Links - Old Course (Scotland) World’s Best New Golf Course The Bluffs Ho Tram Strip (Vietnam) Golf Course Designer of the Year Ernie Els World’s Best Golf Clubhouse The Club at Steyn City Golf Course (South Africa) Oceania’s Best Golf Course Clearwater Golf Course (New Zealand) Oceania’s Best Golf Hotel Terrace Downs Resort (New Zealand) Oceania’s Best Golf Tour Operator Go Golfing Travel AUSTRALIA Australia’s Best Golf Course The National Golf Club - Moonah Course Australia’s Best Golf Hotel Bonville Golf Resort Australia’s Best Inbound Golf Tour Operator Go Golfing Travel Australia’s Best Outbound Golf Tour Operator Events Worldwide Travel

More: www.terracedowns.co.nz

GO GOLFING ~ AUSTRALIA’S ONLY WINNER AT THE 2015 WORLD GOLF AWARDS

Oceania's Best Golf Tour Operator

Australia's Best Inbound Golf Tour Operator

Oceania's Best Golf Tour Operator

WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK OUR CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR LOYALTY AND HELPING GO GOLFING BECOME AUSTRALIA’S MOST AWARDED GOLF TOUR COMPANY.

Find out why 13,000 golfers choose Go Golfing each year

p: 07 5508 2250

l

w: www.gogolfing.net.au December 2015 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

21

Singles wanted for golf tours T

ravelling alone is not everyone’s cup of tea. Even on a group tour, having a TV as your room companion doesn’t suit everyone. There is also the added cost of the single supplement. Go Golfing is seeing a big increase in single travellers looking to room share at their many tournaments and tours.

Gold Coast-based Go Golfing, recently awarded Oceania’s Best Golf Tour Operator, now have a registry of single golfers suitable for sharing rooms. According to Go Golfing’s Peter McCarthy the registry is attracting singles and also those with partners who prefer not to go on a golf tour.

“Sharing a room with someone you don’t know has the potential for disaster. Even sharing with someone you do know can be challenging! So at Go Golfing we put prospective room share partners in touch with each other before they commit to sharing on tour. They can get to know each

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NISEKO GOLF TOUR 2016 Experience tailor-made golf tours across the world—with a specialty in Japan —with Premier Golf Tours.

Team member Paul Sheehan’s 14 years on tour, combined with Steve Treisman’s 25 years as a PGA Member ensure guests will enjoy a unique and professional service while exploring the culture, cuisine and great courses Japan has to offer.

Paul has played at some of the finest courses in the world, while his success in Japan —he won the Japan Open and the Tour Championship—has allowed him to build up a great list of contacts in Japan.

Premier Golf Tours strive to give you “golf trips of a lifetime”, featuring captivating and mind-blowing golf courses with breathtaking views across the globe.

Premier Golf Tours is simply 6-star service!

Premier Golf Tours are a team of experienced PGA Professionals, with groups ranging from 4+ people, ensuring you get undivided attention at all times.

Steve Treisman - Mobile: +61 412 974 840 Email: steve@premiergolftours.com Paul Sheehan - Mobile: + 61 419 408 321 Email: paul@premiergolftours.com

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2015

Book now

www.golfandstay.com.au

other, some even meet up, but importantly after a couple of chats you soon know if this a person you want to share a room with on tour.”

Go Golfing staff get together a quick profile on the single travelers, i.e. do you smoke, snore, are you a night owl, etc. It seems they ask all the important questions.

“Singles aren’t auditioning for ‘Married at First Sight’, indeed we only arrange ladies to share with ladies and men to share with men, but we do want to get it right. We have arranged room shares for 19 golfers in the past two years and so far it is working out very well for everyone,” McCarthy says Kate from Melbourne and Trish from Adelaide were both looking for a room share on a tour to South Africa. After initial checks they were put in touch with each other and in their words: “From that first chat we got on like a house on fire. On tour it was nice to have company after the group activities were

finished. Trish made the morning cuppa while I read out the day’s activities.

“We helped each other with stuff like washing, but also found ourselves market shopping together and inspired each other to try new things – even an elephant ride.

I am a widow and Trish’s husband thinks golf ruins a good walk. We have become great friends and are aiming to do a tour together each year.”

If you are travelling by yourself and are interested in room sharing on any of Go Golfing’s events or tours, then check out the upcoming schedule. Destinations include South Africa, Mauritius, Margaret River, US Masters, Canadian Rockies, Hawaii, France and Italy, and many more.

Mention Inside Golf to take advantage of the early bird special and save $500 per person when booking before 30 November.

More: To register as a single traveller, please visit www.gogolfing.net.au or freecall 1300 55 28 55.

WHAT’S SO SPECIAL ABOUT GO GOLFING TOURNAMENTS?

Oceania's Best Golf Tour Operator

Australia's Best Inbound Golf Tour Operator

Oceania's Best Golf Tour Operator

OPEN TO MEN AND LADIES l PLAY WITH GOLFERS YOUR OWN AGE & STANDARD l STUNNING DESTINATIONS AMAZING COURSES l SUPREME ORGANISATION l GREAT VALUE l GOLF BAGS FLY FREE

UPCOMING EVENTS:

HOBART, TASMANIA

HUA HIN, THAILAND

DANANG, VIETNAM

Wrest Point International Masters 10-15 January 2016

Centara World Masters 12-18 June 2016

Accor World Masters 4-10 September 2016

BRIDPORT, TASMANIA

GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA

GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA

Sanctuary Cove 4 Ball Challenge 9-14 July 2016

Ladbrokes World Masters 23-29 October 2016

Barnbougle Golf Challenge 16-22 January 2016

On behalf of my husband and I, we would like to congratulate you on another wonderful event. We enjoyed the games, the on course challenges and meeting new friends from around the world. The team were amazing in organising the transport and getting everyone off to a great start at each course. We had a wonderful time and we’ll be back again next year.

Christine & Michael Marks (Sydney) Centara WM 2015

p: 07 5508 2250

l

e: mark@gogolfing.net.au

l

w: www.gogolfing.net.au

December 2015 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

23

PLAY THE PEEL

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BOOK A MULTI-COURSE GOLFING ADVENTURE IN THE PEEL REGION, JUST 50 MINUTES SOUTH OF PERTH. The cut

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Secret Harbour Boulevard, Secret Harbour 08 9524 7133 info@secretsgolf.com.au secretsgolf.com.au

On the edge of the Indian Ocean, this is WA’s must play golf course. The James Wilcher designed 18 hole course offers spectacular ocean views and has been created to excite and challenge golfers of all abilities. An unmissable adventure!

This links course is inspired by the classic Scottish courses. Designed by golf architect Graham Marsh and crafted into the spectacular ocean side landscape, this course boasts 18 superb holes all set against a breathtaking Indian Ocean panorama.

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Lot 199 Port Kennedy Drive, Port Kennedy 08 9524 5991 admin@kennedybay.com.au kennedybay.com.au

This incredible course enjoys an elevated location to offer superbly challenging golf through a parkland setting with majestic trees keeping it interesting all the way. Do not miss your opportunity to play this hidden gem of the Peel region.

Acclaimed as one of WA’s best, this course is characterised by beautifully undulating landscapes, fast running fairways and superb greens. This is a true and traditional links course and with 115 pot bunkers it presents an enjoyable challenge.

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PINJARRA GOLF CLUB

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Cnr Pinjarra Rd & Sutton St, Pinjarra 08 9531 1252 admin@pinjarragolf.com.au pinjarragolf.com.au

This course has proudly hosted 7 WA Opens and is your chance to experience immaculate fairways gently meandering through towering Tuart trees.

This is a course that is both a highly regarded test while also being very playable.

Dating back to 1912, this historically impressive course offers golfers a fantastic day of play. Hone your skills on the practice fairways, take lessons with a Golf Pro, or simply soak up the charming scenery - all just 80km from Perth.

THE SEBEL 1 Marco Polo Drive, Mandurah 08 9512 8300 h8767@accor.com thesebel.com Superbly located on the breathtaking Mandurah Estuary The Sebel Mandurah offers jaw-dropping views and 4.5-star guest rooms and apartments, complemented by exemplary Sebel service and world class facilities for all travellers.