Inside Golf Travel July 2016

Issue 33 // JUL 2016 www.insidegolf.com.au

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The NSW Central Coast

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Exploring Alabama’s

Robert Trent Jones Trail Michael Green

T

he thrill of playing to an islandgreen is not something you get to experience very often. Some students of golf architecture will say that’s a good thing, but there is no denying the excitement of seeing one for the first time. And then having to play it.

So when I stood on the tee of the sixth hole at The Judge Course at Capitol Hill, a thought came over me: Is this place for real or have I just stepped into a golf

computer game? It was an epic sight that got the knees knocking, knowing that anything less than a decent shot would see my ball find a watery grave.

the southern U.S. state of Alabama that has fast become one of the state’s most popular tourist attractions since opening in 1992.

It turns out this sort of epic golf is commonplace along Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Trail and I got a good look at a number of these spectacular tracks on our way to The U.S. Masters earlier this year.

But why is it such a big deal and why should you be adding it to your list of great golfing destinations?

The RTJ Trail (as it is usually referred to) is a collection of 26 golf courses (or 468 holes) spread across 11 locations in

Firstly, all 11 locations are open to anyone to play. This is a big deal in the USA where the majority of great golf is hidden behind locked gates, accessible to members only. While each course along the trail is unique, each site is

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July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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The Judge Course at Capitol Hill encased under the RTJ Trail banner and are incredibly affordable for this quality of golf in the U.S. Secondly, did I mention it’s epic golf?

Undoubtedly some of the golf holes I played along the RTJ Trail are the most spectacular I’ve ever played. Occasionally I wondered if I’d accidentally stumbled into one of those fantastical golf calendars where someone would paint golf holes onto some of the world’s most dramatic settings.

Beginning our journey in New Orleans, I left Bourbon St behind and headed straight for Cambrian Ridge; about a

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | July 2016

four hour drive out of Louisiana, briefly through the state of Mississippi and into Alabama.

Consisting of three distinct nines, I played the Sherling and Canyon nines and wasn’t disappointed. It’s stunning golf that was exemplified just four holes into our round when the all-water carry par-3 4th had us shaking in our golf shoes.

And while the RTJ Trail is unashamedly target-style golf, it wasn’t without options. The 5th, 6th and 7th hole stretch on the Sherling course at Cambrian Ridge all offer obvious, safe choices to get your

ball in play while offering a big reward if you can take the dog-leg on. In such a spectacular setting, even the most conservative golfer will have a hard time knocking back the seduction of a heroic, memorable golf shot.

But if you’re wanting to face heroic, memorable golf shots a little more frequently, make your way to The Judge Course at Capitol Hill.

Capitol Hill is just 15 minutes out of Montgomery; the capital of Alabama and a city steeped in American history.

During the Ciivil War it was the capital of the Confederate States and is considered

to be the birthplace of the civil rights movement. If you can drag yourself away from the golf for a while, it’s well worth a look around.

The Judge is one of the most extraordinary golf courses I’ve ever played. It’s often featured on golf simulators and computer games, and if I hadn’t seen it with my own eyes I would have assumed it was something dreamed up by some golf-loving computer programmer.

The opening hole is one of the most amazing I’ve seen. The view of the narrowing fairway from the elevated tee is a daunting sight and it’s a tense introduction to the round.

But the incredible looking holes don’t stop there with water hazards surrounding 14 of the 18 holes on The Judge, including the island-green 6th and

Clubhouse at Grand National plenty of mind-boggling water carries.

Arguably my favourite hole is the 245 metre, par-4 11th hole which features a split fairway (by a water hazard) that could see you change your mind two, three, maybe four times on the tee.

The run home has some magnificent scenery that will leave you wondering just how The Judge was built. The tee boxes and bridges of the par-3 12th hole are worth the green fees alone that are only just usurped by the beauty of the hole itself. The tee shot at the par-5 15th test every golfer on the planet, and will leave you feeling inundated even before you hit your tee shot.

It’s with some regret that I did not have time to play the other two courses at Capitol Hill; The Legislator and The Senator. Home to the LPGA’s Yokohama Tire LPGA Classic, the Senator is a links-

The 6th hole at The Judge Course at Capitol Hill style golf course and a favourite of many on The Trail.

The last stop on our brief tour was The Lakes and Links courses at Grand National, near the western border of Alabama. Both courses were in stunning condition with The Lakes course in particular, a picture postcard with 12 holes hugging Lake Saugahatchee to form some spectacular holes. The par-3’s are magical and you’ll need your golf brain firmly switched on to resist the urge to bite off more than you can chew at the 12th and 16th holes.

Each stop on the RTJ Trail is home to

friendly staff who provide the sort of service we’re not familiar with in Australia.

Drop your bags, park your car and by the time you return they’ll be loaded up on your cart and ready to go. Yes, tips are expected but it’s an environment you should experience at least once.

The wonderfully grand clubhouses feature fully-stocked pro shop, bar and a place to get lunch. Don’t forget to kick back in the rocking chair on the verandah after a round. It’s the perfect place to contemplate that heroic shot you pulled off, or maybe the one you didn’t.

running approach shots or a bump-andrun style shot we’re more familiar with in Australia but this is not what the RTJ Trail is about. Unashamedly, the Trail was created to be a major, epic test of golf where (as the website states) golfers will remember that “one brilliant shot that (momentarily) conquers a hole”.

If you’re on your way to The Masters or passing through the southern states of the USA, it’s worth checking in at some of the stops along the RTJ Trail. It will be one of the most epic golf experiences you’ll ever have. •

I occasionally longed to play a few low,

July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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Amixing golf with game: W

ith experiences to thrill, entertain, delight and inspire, a golfing safari is a memorable way to experience the magic of Africa.

Famous for its wildlife safaris, South Africa rates as one of the world’s best golf destinations for the number and diversity of its courses. If you enjoy the challenge of a coastal course, there is a stunning selection available. If you prefer playing at altitude, where the ball flies that much further, the selection is just as exciting.

Chances are you will share a game or two with some pretty unusual wildlife.

Don’t be surprised to find crocodiles in the water hazards, giraffes munching the trees, and impala nibbling the fairways.

And, you too can experience this…

Starting 22 February, Go Golfing’s 17day fully escorted tour features 8 rounds

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | July 2016

of golf starting in Pretoria, with the acclaimed Nicklaus designed Pecanwood Golf and Country Club.

On tour, you will play some of the finest courses South Africa has to offer. This includes the legendary Fancourt Country Club, No.1 Gary Player (home to the Nedbank Million Dollar Classic), Lost City, Atlantic Beach, golf in Kruger Park and world renowned Pezula overlooking the Indian Ocean.

You will then continue on to the lavish playground of Sun City where you play South Africa’s most famous course, Gary Player Country Club. The Course offers lightning-fast putting surfaces, constant changes in elevation and challenging water hazards. The pristine kikuyu fairways and bent greens are flawlessly pure.

The wildlife encountered on the Lost City golf course will make your heart beat a little faster. The par-3, 13th hole is surrounded by a crocodile-infested water hazard. Suffice it to say that you’ll be happy to give up on balls that go astray.

Just take that penalty and move on. This is always a highlight for our golf travellers.

The golf courses around the Kruger National Park enjoy a unique charm with animals occasionally crossing the fairways while the sound of hippos can be heard at the nearby water holes. Add in the unequalled beauty of the bushveld landscape to make up for a very special and unforgettable golf experience.

The legendary Fancourt Country Club lies at the heart of the scenic Garden Route, running from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth through the Western Cape Province. Fancourt extends over 1,500

acres of lush landscaped countryside with the majestic backdrop of the Outeniqua Mountains. There you will play one of the finest 18-hole parkland layout in the country, ranked in South Africa’s Top 10.

Another highlight will see you head out to the Stellenbosch Winelands to play de Zalze, a golf course always highly ranked as one of South Africa’s top courses.

After you’ve played the 18-hole, par-72 course, head down to a local wine farm for celebratory feast and a glass (or two) of wine.

Your last African golf highlight will be at the Atlantic Beach Golf Estate. Its seaside setting in the town of Melbosstrand means you’re never too far from the sound of crashing waves, Table Mountain serves as a majestic backdrop, and the manicured lawns are dotted with indigenous fynbos plants. There’s little

argument that Atlantic Beach might be the region’s most postcard-perfect golf course.

Go Golfing Travel have been hosting group tours to South Africa for the past 14 years. Voted Oceania’s Best Golf Tour Operator at the World Golf Awards, no company is better equipped than Go Golfing to give you the ultimate South

African golf and touring experience.

You’ll be impressed with the quality of the accommodation, golf courses and the many tour inclusions. This is always a sellout. Satisfaction is guaranteed.

Book before the early bird ends on 15 July. For more information visit www.gogolfing.net.au or call 07 5508 2250. •

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www.murrayriverpaddlesteamers.com.au | info@mrps.com.au | 03 5482 5244 July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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Showtime in the West F

David Newbery david@insidegolf.com.au

Perth is also home to Kings Park, which is one of the world’s largest inner city parks.

OR a great golf holiday, it’s hard to find better value than Western Australia.

In the West, they weave intriguing layouts, quality resorts, soothing spas, gourmet dining and blend urban cool with raw natural beauty.

Here you’ll discover golf courses as good as anywhere in Australia and abroad.

To be sure, golf is on the boil in Western Australia but it’s also a cool place to visit.

All around there are new bars, restaurants, shopping precincts and cultural spaces.

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Then there are the wineries and stunning beaches where you can even swim with wild dolphins.

Clean air, expansive landscapes, the transfer between mountains, deserts, rivers and sea, Western Australia is a rewarding golfing destination.

Golf in the West reflects those elements and to play golf here is a delight.

The region offers desert-style, links-style and traditional parkland courses as well as quality golf ranges each with its own personality – their distinctive traits magnified by their own unique, distinctive features.

Go on, head West and make West Australia your next gloat trip.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M

Sun City Country Club JOONDALUP RESORT LAKELANDS COUNTRY CLUB THE VINES RESORT & COUNTRY CLUB WEMBLEY GOLF COURSE KWINANA GOLF CLUB THE LINKS KENNEDY BAY MEadow springs golf & country club bunbury golf club capel golf club busselton golf club margaret river golf club kalgoorlie golf course

Western Australia

Busselton Golf Club

Bunbury Golf Club BUNBURY Golf Club, located 90 minutes from Perth, offers a golf course that is a breath of fresh air.

The golf course is quite tight, but not too tight and there are a number of bailout areas.”

for $25 for 18 holes. All other days it’s $47, but the club does offer attractive group rates.

This parkland golf course offers much, although there isn’t a water hazard in sight.

Shearer said the bunkering resembled those at some of Melbourne’s sandbelt courses.

Regarded as the gateway to golf in the South West, the club is offering golfers a three-month trial membership for $150.

“They call Bunbury Golf Club the Lake Karrinyup of the south,” said the club’s general manager Des Shearer.

“If you look at Commonwealth Golf Club you can see a likeness of the bunkering and the aesthetics and you say ‘wow’,” Shearer said.

A 280m driving range, short game and putting green is available.

“Everyone who plays the course loves it and the pros talk about it all the time. A lot of visitors come down and play in our 54-hole event.”

To play this course is a treat because the fairways are perfectly manicured and the greens and bunkers superb.

Bunbury is an easy-walking, undulating golf course with a small hill in the centre.

Some of the holes slope around the hill to give variety of an excellent layout.

The feature hole is short, but tricky, 124m downhill par-3 10th.

“We have a reputation for our excellent, fast and true putting surfaces,” Shearer said. “The greens are small with subtle breaks and can be tricky.

“It can be anything from a six-iron to a sand-iron depending on the prevailing wind,” Shearer said. “It’s pretty spectacular.”

“If you are a good putter, you will have a good day.

The club welcomes visitors most days but on any Monday, golfers can tee it up

The Shani Waugh Golf School caters for all-comers while British PGA pro Danny Malcolm takes care of golf operations.

The clubhouse has full bar, lounge and dining facilities for up to 128 people.

The lounge overlooks the course and estuary making a special backdrop for any function.

Bunbury Golf Club Lucy Victoria Avenue, Clifton Park 6233 Phone: (08) 9725-1231 www.bunburygolfclub.com.au

FORMER US Open runner-up Stephen Leaney learnt his craft playing the 109-year-old course at Busselton Golf Club.

Voted WA’s best regional golf facility in 2016, close to beautiful Geographe Bay and the world-renowned Busselton Jetty, and gateway to the wine region, it’s been rated a top-5 course to play outside of Perth.

With bent grass greens and wellpresented fairways, the course stretches to 6260m off the back tees for men and 5357m for women.

The carpet-like greens are true and fast and, with many undulations, make playing to your handicap an accomplishment.

Still, most golfers can negotiate their way around the course without too much trouble although there is out-of-bounds on the left side of holes 10, 11, 12 and 13.

Chasing the Sun Golf Tournament Ceduna to Kalgoorlie 1 - 8 April 2017

Nullarbor Links, ‘World’s Longest Golf Course’, is unique. This 18-hole par 73 golf course spans 1,365 kilometres with one hole in each participating town or roadhouse along the Eyre Highway from Ceduna in South Australia to Kalgoorlie in Western Australia.

Each hole includes a synthetic green, tee and somewhat rugged outback-style natural terrain fairway. The course provides visitors with a quintessential Australian golfing experience that is unmatched anywhere else in the world.

Kalgoorlie

Ceduna

World’s Longest Golf Course, Australia

“Chasing the Sun” Golf Tournament has established itself as a brilliant Australian golfing experience, from the very first sip of champagne on Saturday morning at Ceduna, through to toasting the setting Sun in Kalgoorlie 7 days later.

This is memorable journey, taking you on a drive to Australia’s famous oyster beds in Ceduna, then to the wheat and sheep farming districts of Penong, Nundroo and the beautiful waters of Fowlers Bay. You venture passed the whales and the beautiful coastline at Nullarbor to arrive at the beaches of Eucla, to meet the Pirate and claim your treasure. Clutching your gold you move on to the remains of Skylab at Balladonia and the working sheep station at Fraser Range.

The Indigenous art and dance of the Ngadju people in Norseman will features strongly in your memories of the festival. The next morning you journey on to nickel mining and land sailing at Kambalda and then finally to Australia’s gold capital, Kalgoorlie.

For more information and to view the full itinerary visit www.nullarborlinks.com

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M O T E L

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Western Australia

Meadow Springs Golf and Country Club

Joondalup Resort If you do have a good round going, don’t lose concentration on the 401m par-4 18th. It can be a card destroyer.

“You have to get a good drive away to make the green in two because there is trouble left and right,” says the course guide.

“Avoid the big bunker on the left-hand side of the green because the green slopes to the right.

other days it’s $40.

The club’s practice facilities include a 250m driving range, chipping and pitching green and a large putting green.

The newly renovated pro shop offers a large range of clothing, footwear and golf equipment.

“The best birdie chances are at the 151m par-3 third hole, the 288m dogleg par-4 11th and the 153m 17th.”

A new, state-of-the-art indoor golf simulator is in the pipeline so the occasional bad weather will never be a problem. It also makes booking an evening lesson with PGA professional Kerrod Gray an option.

“Busselton is such a great members’ course,” said one member. “I have been a member for 25 years and never get tired of playing the golf course.

The newly refurbished clubhouse is inviting, comfortable and a nice place to check your scorecard over a drink and a bite to eat.

“I have played a lot of courses and I’m happy to play Busselton every day of the week.”

The course welcomes visitors, who can play 18 holes on Mondays for $25. All

You don’t travel to WA and not stay-andplay at one of Australia’s top golf resorts.

Like the state itself, Joondalup Resort’s 27-hole layout tests the balance between risk and reward.

With three distinctive nine-hole layouts – The Dune, The Quarry and The Lake – Joondalup is filled with delightful challenges.

You can smash a driver off the tee or hit a positional iron – or go for the green with two heroic strikes or play a wedge to the putting surfaces.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr, each nine has at least one monstrous par-4 and par-3 and several shorter holes to reward clever shot-making.

Of the three different layouts, The Quarry is just eye-popping. It weaves its way around steep limestone quarries and deep, menacing valleys.

Busselton Golf Club 277 Chapman Hill Road, Busselton, WA 6280 Phone: (08) 9753-1050 www.busseltongolfclub.com.au

Don’t leave home without your camera.

The 136m third hole is intimidating because you are hitting over the “valley of death” – all carry to the green.

The 475m par-5 fourth hole is a ripper – a double dogleg that weaves around a large limestone cliff that protects an elevated green.

If you find the world’s biggest and deepest bunker in front of the green, simply take the ladder down to your ball and pray you make a quick exit.

Locals dub Joondalup “Paradise in Suburbia”. More than 80,000 rounds are played here each year.

That’s because the course is immaculate and the accommodation superb. The resort is perfect for groups (small and large).

With 70 rooms and suites, Joondalup offers play-and-stay packages and the service is first-class. Other facilities include conference centre, pool

Meadow Springs Golf & Country Club Membership Special Meadow Springs Golf & Country Club is offering a new financial year membership special

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Measuring 6189 metres from the blue tees, the golf course promises a unique experience through open bush land, the layout dictated by the natural features of the land. Towering 200 year old Tuart trees line generous fairways and subtly rolling greens enhancing the sensation of being alone in the wilderness.

5 day (Monday-Friday) or 7 day memberships on sale. * Membership will include June this year giving 13 months for the price of 12.

As part of your membership at Meadow Springs, you can enjoy: Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday competitions | All mixed comps | $240 food & beverage vouchers | 10% off food and beverage 20% off Pro Shop merchandise (discounted items not included) | All memberships include ‘members guest passes’ offering great rates

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | July 2016

(08) 9581 6002 www.msgcc.com.au

Western Australia and heated spa, tennis courts, mini gymnasium, massage and beauty treatments, a cafe, restaurant, and cocktail lounge.

So confident is Joondalup about its quality and service, it even encourages comments on its scorecard. There’s a special section on the card to make comment about pro shop service, locker rooms, signage and more.

Joondalup Resort (08) 9400-8811 proshop@joondalupresort.com.au www.joondalupresort.com.au MY first question to Meadow Springs Golf and Country Club general manager Scott Proctor was: “What’s my ammunition quota for this golf course”?

He hit my question straight down the middle.

“I don’t know what your handicap is, but I will say we have generous driving areas so you shouldn’t lose too many golf balls,” he said.

Okay, time to hit the practice range.

“We have the best practice facility in Western Australia,” Proctor said. “It’s a full length, floodlit range with superb short game, putting area and three practice bunkers.”

Meadow Springs is south of Perth near the coastal town of Mandurah and is the “sister course” of Joondalup.

Robert Trent Jones Jr designed the course, which is close to the coastline just south of Perth, in two loops (think of the

Kwinana Golf Club figure 8).

Playing the course is a unique experience because few holes run parallel enhancing the feeling of being alone on the course.

Measuring 6189m from the blue tees and 4997m from the red tees, the golf course is in excellent condition and the ball rolls beautifully on the subtly rolling greens.

“It’s an outstanding layout and it’s a golf course you need to think your way around,” Proctor said.

He nominated the 396m par-4 ninth as the toughest hole on the course. It’s guarded by a large lake on the right so you need a solid drive to have any chance of getting home in two.

Many courses have tough finishing holes, but Meadow Springs is different.

Award winning championship golf course Just 18kms north of Perth

It’s 18th, a 460m par-5, gives golfers of all levels a chance to make birdie – or at least par.

Surprisingly, Meadow Springs has memberships available in a number of categories. Contact the club for new financial year specials.

The pro shop has an excellent range of golf apparel, equipment and accessories and the club’s teaching pro, Craig “Tappie” Tapp, is available for lessons.

Meadows Springs is an ideal venue for meetings, conventions, seminars, conferences and weddings. The food and beverage options vary and priced to suit every budget.

Meadow Springs Golf and Country Club Phone: (08) 9581-6360 Email: golf@msgcc.com.au www.msgcc.com.au

FOR more than 55 years, Kwinana Golf Club has been wooing members and visitors to its picturesque and top-quality golf course.

Of course, for first time visitors first impressions are everything and that’s why the club’s friendly pro shop and clubhouse staff always make golfers are welcome and feel at ease.

“We have brilliant staff here,” said the club’s general manager Linda Borrell.

“They are very helpful, friendly and accommodating and look after everyone’s interests.”

The eye-catching, multi-level clubhouse is a wonderful place to gather before and after a round.

It certainly is a popular venue for corporate events, meetings, birthday parties and weddings.

The Secret Is Finally Out,Come And See Why • Full practice facilities, fully stocked golf shop and motorized carts • Bar open 7 x days a week with hot bar snacks • Friendly country atmosphere • Everyone welcome • Group bookings catered for • Membership, no joining fee for 2016

GrEEn FEEs $45.00 - 18 holes $27.00 - 9 holes

ElEctric carts $40.00 – 18 holes $27.00 – 9 holes

Margaret river golf Club For bookings email golfshop@westnet.com.au or phone Jon & Mandy Farrell on 08 9757 3161 599 Wallcliffe rd, Margaret river Wa 6285

www.margaretrivergolfclub.com.au July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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Western Australia three professionals on duty including head pro Dave Robinson.

Kwinana offers midweek specials – $43 per person in a shared golf cart and on weekends it’s $60pp in a shared cart. Hire equipment is also available from the wellstocked pro shop.

Kwinana Golf Club is a big supporter of junior golf and was the first club in Australia to introduce the First Tee Junior Program.

“Everyone is welcome to visit Kwinana Golf Club,” Ms Borrell said. “It’s the ideal place to relax, enjoy the game of golf and soak up the club’s wonderful atmosphere.”

Lakelands Country Club It’s also where members and guests gather to share stories of good, or not so favourable, rounds.

parkland-style course is a proper challenge with plenty of trees and hazards to catch wayward shots.

attempt.

Still, there shouldn’t be any excuses because the golf course is in excellent condition thanks to superintendent Liam Somers and his dedicated staff.

“I think we have one of the best courses in Perth,” Ms Borrell added. “It’s not just challenging, it’s also an interesting layout and one people never tire of playing.

Kwinana golf course attracts plenty of birdlife and even has resident geese, but no kangaroos.

The quality of the course even impressed the professionals who took part in the club’s recent pro-am – the first in 20 years.

“The golf course, which is set in a picturesque valley has its undulations and hills and is relatively easy walking, but we have a fleet of golf carts for golfers who prefer to ride.”

“The pro-am was a great success and we are going to continue having a pro-am each year,” Ms Borrell said.

At 6271 metres (5286m for women), the

Ms Borrell challenged golfers of all levels to try to beat their handicap at their first

You can expect to enjoy a whole new experience at Wembley Golf Course this year. Its exciting new Ambrose Estate hospitality complex will include a bar and restaurant, function spaces, a Miniature Golf Course with an open air pavilion, children’s playground and ceremony garden. Featuring a stylish modern interior and a large timber balcony, the venue will offer a range of event spaces to cater for all styles of functions and the restaurant will be open 7 days a week for all day dining, accompanied by breathtaking views of the Tuart Course.

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“It’s never easy the first time, but that’s the challenge golfers enjoy.”

That’s a bonus because it means there is no damage done to the fairways and greens and that makes the club’s 500 members happy.

The club has a driving range and short game practice area for chipping and putting.

For those seeking a lesson, there are

Kwinana Golf Club 2 Summerton Rd, Calista Pro shop: (08) 9419-4959 Office: (08) 9419-2888 www.kwinanagolfclub.com.au

MOST golf club members exhibit pride in their home course.

Those at Lakelands Country Club in Western Australia, 18 kilometres north of Perth, are justified in revering what they call a “hidden gem”.

Upon entering the long driveway, the first thing that grabs your attention is the picturesque and beautiful surroundings.

It’s fair to say stunning and immaculate are the words that sum up Lakelands Country Club.

Under the guidance of club president John Alchin and newly appointed general manager Paul Kelly, the club has more than 1100 members catering for over

Western Australia 60,000 rounds a year.

It’s a membership success story with high participation rates. In fact, some categories are now closed.

When it comes to Perth golf courses, Lakelands CC is a popular venue for professionals to play and practice, including the 2015 WA Open champion Daniel Fox. The course is challenging and the practice facilities are arguably the best around.

“I started playing at Lakelands Country Club at the age of 10 and continued as a member throughout my career,” Fox said. It is a terrific club.”

Perhaps it’s another reason why Lakelands Country Club took out the prestigious Pro-Am of the Year Award earlier this year.

Currently, Lakelands is in the middle of a five-year improvement plan under the stewardship of Terry Gale.

Intelligently designed, Lakelands takes advantage of every metre of space available.

“The benefits are already evident with golfers of all levels enjoying generous fairways and the best greens in Western Australia,” Kelly said.

“Our course superintendent Eric Dennis is doing a tremendous job with his innovative and dedicated staff in delivering a quality and testing experience for all golfers.”

Stretching to 6169m for men and 5359m for women, you would be mistaken for

Margaret River Golf Club thinking this golf course is all about beauty and not brawn.

Don’t be fooled. The driver is the weapon of choice on most par-4s with a couple of par-3s needing a bit more than a lob wedge.

The immaculate greens, too, ask many questions and have been described as “fast and furious”.

Lakelands offers golfers a comfortable clubhouse, friendly and helpful staff while the pro shop, which comes under the guidance of respected professional Damian Chatterley, caters for everyone’s needs.

The members are quite clearly proud of their wonderful club and golf course, but they certainly don’t take it for granted.

Anyone interesting in joining the club as a full member should do so soon because the club has waived the nomination fee for a limited time.

Lakelands Country Club Clubhouse Lane, Gnangara 6065 Clubhouse (08) 9405-4888 Pro shop (08) 9306-1122 www.lakelandscc.com.au

WHAT region of Australia would you be in if the words “great golf, stunning surf and wonderful wine” were mentioned in the same sentence?

Yes, it’s the Margaret River, of course.

Margaret River Golf Club, a delightful club three hours south of Perth, is in the middle of wine country and a couple of par-5s from stunning surf beaches.

“This famous region greets you with a wonderful village vibe surrounded by nice friendly people,” said Inside Golf publisher and keen surfer Sam Arthur.

“I didn’t know what to expect, but a number of people along the way to

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13

Western Australia in 2006 and 2009, The Vines Resort and Country Club offers two equallychallenging 18-hole courses in the Swan Valley wine region.

There’s even a vineyard within the 91room and 12-suite resort and just a long putt from the 18th green, which makes the venue the ideal place to stay-andplay.

The Vines Resort and Country Club Margaret River said it was a hidden gem.”

The club’s vice-president Dave Noske certainly agrees and is passionate about the golf club.

“We started travelling around Australia from Adelaide 20 years ago and arrived to this fantastic place and we have been here ever since,” he said.

good course management tells you the smart play is to select an iron off the tee on many of the par-4s.

“Position is everything,” Sam said.

can play here seven-days-a-week outside normal competitions times, of course.”

The course, which has kikuyu fairways and bent greens, is 6092 metres.

The resort has already spent $4m refurbishing the accommodation in 2015.

It includes new modern bathrooms, new furniture, lush soft furnishings and new beds.

Coffee-lovers can enjoy the pod coffee machines in each room along with free in-room wifi (very high speed available at extra cost), and free in-house movies on demand and selected Foxtel channels for couch potatoes.

A feature on the back nine is the Tea Lake, which comes into play on the 11th hole.

Green fees are $45 for 18 holes and $27 for nine holes while golf care hire is $40 and $27 for 18 and nine holes respectively.

“We just love it and it’s a great place to bring up a family.

“The back nine really makes you appreciate this golf course. Holes 11, 12, 15 and 17 are superb,” Sam added.

“The golf course is a ripper. In fact, over the last few years the standard of the club and golf course has improved so much.

“You’ll need all your cunning when you arrive on the 18th tee because it’s a 404m brute of a hole from the blue markers.

The clubhouse overlooks the golf course and there is an inviting deck for golfers to relax and reflect on their round over a cold drink.

Muscat’s Restaurant has also received a facelift and won Best Restaurant at the Restaurant & Catering Awards in 2015.

The menu features local produce, worldclass Swan Valley wines and craft beers.

“The access to grey water means we have pure fairways and putting surfaces all year round.”

“Margaret River’s country hospitality is exceptional and the members are friendly and welcoming,” Sam added.

Whenever you are in the area, make sure you set aside half-a-day to visit this now not-so-hidden gem of a golf course. You won’t be disappointed.

The upgrade of the conference facilities, lobby, public and breakout spaces and the addition of the Keishi Day Spa completes the resort’s transformation.

When Inside Golf visited, the course was in outstanding condition and a joy to play.

Golf operation manager Jon Farrell and his wife Mandy run the golf shop, which caters for all golfers’ needs.

The front nine allows you work your way into the game although there are some tight shots off the tee.

“We are fully equipped and even have hire sets from standard to deluxe,” Jon said.

Accuracy is the key to a good round and

“We certainly welcome visitors, who

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Margaret River Golf Club 599 Wallcliffe Rd, Margaret River 6285 Phone: (08) 9757-3161 Email: golfshop@westnet.com.au www.margaretrivergolfclub.com.au

HOSTS of the Heineken Classic from 1993-2001 and the Johnnie Walker Classic

Once there, golfers enjoy two unique different courses designed by Graham Marsh and Ross Watson, which smartly incorporates the landscape changes.

Played from the tips the Ellenbrook Course stretches to 6541m. It’s a test for golfers of all levels. Played from the members’ tees it’s 6207m and from the

Western Australia gentler visitors’ tees 5838. The women’s course is 5381m.

The Lakes is 6497m, 6153m, 5747m and for the women 5097m.

Both courses are invigorating tests of golf.

The bent grass greens are among the largest in the country and the unique bunkering is eye-catching.

The comfortable clubhouse offers a bar and restaurant, locker rooms and shower facilities.

If you are still feeling energetic after 36 holes of golf head for the tennis or squash courts, gym or swimming pool for a few laps.

The Vines Resort and Country Club Phone: (08) 9297-3000 Email: reservations@vines.com.au Web: www.vines.com.au WHAT’S new at Wembley Golf Course?

Well, plenty actually.

This month (July) the brand-new stateof-the-art Ambrose Estate hospitality complex opens while later this year a high-quality landscaped miniature golf course, ceremony pavilion and children’s playground will open.

The beautifully appointed Ambrose Estate includes the casual all day dining restaurant ‘300 Acres’, function rooms, kids’ party rooms and a ceremony pavilion.

Located just 10 kilometres from Perth’s CBD, Ambrose Estate has stunning views of the city skyline, two lush golf courses,

Wembley Golf Course natural bushland and lakes.

This stylish new complex will be the ideal venue, day or night, for wedding ceremonies, receptions, seminars, conferences, luncheons, sundowners, dinners and celebrations.

Ambrose Estate will become one of Perth’s most sought-after event venues.

Open seven-days-a-week, 300 Acres restaurant is the ideal location to start your day.

It’s where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast, quick bite to eat after golf, relax at the bar for a drink, catch up over coffee or spend your evening leisurely wining and dining.

And let’s not forget the two 18-hole golf courses – the Old Course and the Tuart Course – and the two-tier, 80-bay fullyautomated driving range.

Wembley Golf Course also offer short game areas as well as grass teaching tees

and practice bunkers where a host of PGA professionals will help improve your game.

There are also teaching bays, an indoor fitting room (with all the leading brands available) SAM Putt Lab and Track Man Launch monitor plus HD camera systems linked to Dartfish teaching software.

The hub of all this activity is the gigantic, well-stocked golf shop capable of handling the busy nature of the facility.

Wembley Golf Course opens at first light and closes well after dark courtesy of the floodlit driving range.

Green fees for 18 holes are $31 midweek and $38.50 weekends and public holiday.

Wembley Golf Course Phone (08) 6280-1300 Email: info@wembleygc.com.au www.wembleygolf.com.au www.ambroseestate.com.au

LOCATED 30 minutes north of Joondalup is Sun City Country Club.

It’s one of WA’s best layouts and it’s just getting better courtesy of a multi-million dollar redevelopment.

The Mike Clayton and Geoff Ogilvy design team have completely redesigned nine of Sun City’s 18-hole layout, which feature some of their best architectural attributes – generous landing areas, clever bunkering and chipping areas around the greens.

The transformation is amazing.

Even golf officials and players from rival clubs say Sun City will match any course in the state once completed.

Rated in the top-100 in Australia, Sun City will undoubtedly improve its position in the years ahead.

Still, work is on hold for now to give members and visitors a breather and the opportunity to play a par-72

Perth’s finest golf resort & leisure destination Enjoy an overnight stay before tackling 18 holes of golf on one of Australia’s finest resort golf courses Few golf courses anywhere in the world offer the dramatic contrasts, scenic beauty and sheer golfing challenge of Joondalup’s 27 hole championship course.

Nestled in natural bushland just north of Perth CBD and five minutes from WA’s Sunset Coast, Joondalup Resort offers an oasis of relaxation, comfort and state of the art facilities.

We look forward to welcoming you soon.

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For more details please contact us at (08) 9400 8888 | info@joondalupresort.com.au | www.joondalupresort.com.au July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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Western Australia

Capel Golf Club

Sun City Country Club championship course.

A feature of the course is the lake between the ninth and 10th holes. If you are going to lose a ball this is the most likely place so pay attention.

Around here, it’s common to see groups of kangaroos lining the fairways – but emus?

Yes, we came across three emus not far from the clubhouse, which has stunning views over the golf course.

A major highlight of any round at Sun City has always been the long sweeping breaks on greens, which seem to keep their line secret until just after impact of putter on ball.

Another unique fascination is the length of many of its holes. They demand good use of every club in the bag, including the longest irons.

If you arrive at Sun City and need to sharpen your game, check out the Jim Danas Golf Academy.

Sun City is an easy walking course, but carts are available for hire. A round will cost $40 mid-week and $50 on weekends.

Sun City Country Club also offers a range of membership categories to suit every player. Benefits of a membership with Sun City Country Club include; a registered Australian handicap after three rounds, several competitions during the week and on weekends, access for

guests at a reduced rate, discounts on motorised cart hire, special member pricing within the bar and restaurant, the use of the clubhouse for private functions at reduced hire rates and access to a number of reciprocal clubs throughout Australia and overseas.

There are a number of Junior and Youth categories to cater to all ages with Sun City boasting a successful Junior Development Program. For those who don’t play golf, a social membership is also available to receive member discounts in the bar and restaurant.

Inside Golf found the pro shop staff to be friendly and helpful.

There certainly is a good vibe around the club.

Sun City Country Club 144 St Andrews Drive Yanchep Western Australia 6035 www.suncitycountryclub.com.au Golf Centre: +61 (8) 9561-1352

JUST 15 minutes south of Bunbury along the Bussell Highway is the picturesque Capel Golf Club, which is virtually the gateway to the wineries of the South West.

This course’s unique flavour will grab you the instant you enter the front gate.

The drive through the avenue and tunnel of trees under which kangaroos while

overlooking the ninth and 18th.

away the hours set the mood for what lies ahead.

“It’s an easy walking course because it’s flat,” Murphy said. “It’s just the ninth and 18th that is slightly uphill so you earn your beer in the bar after the round.

Oh, and make sure your first stop is the pro shop where Troy “Big Red” Murphy awaits.

“I invite all golfers to come and play Capel because you will definitely be talking about it afterwards.

Big Red is your quintessential Australian and one of the friendliest and most helpful pros around. He goes the extra mile for members and visitors alike.

“We are open to visitors seven days a week and green fees are $35 for 18 holes and $25 for nine.”

Capel is a tree-line parkland course with wide fairways and small target greens.

Campaner said the club offered golfers a three-month trial membership for $135.

“If you do miss the fairways it’s a jail,” Murphy said. “To escape, you virtually have to play sideways because you can’t advance it very far.

“So, accuracy is essential on this course which is generally in perfect condition all year round.”

“That gives them seven-day access, a handicap and they can play in the comps,” he said.

“Full membership is also available.”

Capel Golf Club 1380 Bussell Highway, Stratham Phone: (08) 9795-7033 www.capelgolfclub.org.au

The club general manager Paul Campaner said the club was renowned for its pure bent grass greens and manicured fairways.

The 181m par-3 17th, bunkered on both sides, is a classic short hole and is a beauty.

“It’s definitely risk and reward and I have heard golfers say it’s the shortest par-5 going around,” Murphy laughed. “It’s a hole players will remember.”

IF you go to Western Australia to play golf, make sure The Links Kennedy Bay is on your short list.

It’s a wonderful golfing experience and one you won’t forget in a hurry.

All the par-5s are less than 500m, but they are risk and reward holes.

The Links Kennedy Bay might not have a large pretentious clubhouse, but what it does have is a true links golf course of the highest quality.

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For more information call (08) 9524 5991 or visit our website

Western Australia

Kalgoorlie Golf Course

The Links Kennedy Bay Little wonder it’s been rated the third best public access course in Australia behind Barnbougle and Lost Farm in Tasmania.

Chris Gray, the former Australian amateur champion and winner of many professional events in Australia and abroad, said The Links Kennedy Bay, managed by Peter Whittle of Prime Golf, was “special and unique”.

“To play The Links Kennedy Bay successfully you need to be able to control your ball by hitting it low and high when needed,” Gray said.

“We get a bit of wind here so hit it low into the wind and high downwind.

“The fairways are quite generous, but there are a lot of pot bunkers (115) so watch out for them. They are only small but they tend to swallow the balls up quite a bit.”

Gray lists the par-4 fifth the toughest on the course. It’s 417m from the black tee box, 410m (blue), 382m (white) and 355m (red).

“There are bunkers down the fairways so it’s quite tight to get through those,” he said.

The short par-4 12th (307m off the white tees) is a risk-reward hole.

“You can drive it downwind, but there is trouble around the green,” he said. “Most people lay-up and wedge it in.

“The par-3s are great and some of the best around. The 123m 12th named Wee Tap is a great hole. 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.

Still anyone up for the challenge, mentally and physically, should play it off the tips. The cost is $50 walking or $75 with cart.

Visitors are welcome to play every day and hungry golfers can take advantage of the club’s full menu.

The Links Kennedy Bay Phone: (08) 9524-5991 Email: admin@kennedybay.com.au www.kennedybay.com.au

835 metres shorter.

WHEN you book your golf trip to Perth, make sure you factor in Kalgoorlie Golf Course because the sublime GrahamMarsh-designed layout is one you’ll definitely want to tick off your bucket list.

The first thing you notice about this layout of wild beauty is the magnificent colours – red, green and blue.

On the final four holes, the course is virtually treeless though the fairways dip and rise somewhat.

The red dirt butts up against the green manicured fairways with the blue sky as the backdrop.

Variety and fine conditioning define this work of art.

From the tee boxes, the course looks intimidating but it has numerous tee positions and is considerably more forgiving than many others you’ll play in your travels.

From the tips, the course stretches to 6768m, but off the shorter public tees it’s

Full-grown trees on this desert-style course are as rare as freeway civility, but the first 14 holes boast a variety of trees, though they rarely come into play.

Club professional Paul Breuker said Kalgoorlie prided itself on its greens, which clock in at between 9 and 11 on the Stimpmeter.

“Graham Marsh has designed big, flowing greens which allow five or six pin positions.”

Many greens are tiered with the par-5 ninth a lengthy, three-tier roller-coaster.

An approach shot here could be anything from a wedge to a seven-iron depending on the pin position.

“If there’s one shot you need around here’ it’s a good short game,” Breuker said.

“A lot of greens are elevated so you are playing a lot of uphill chip shots, but

starting from

$249 per night

Enjoy a round of golf on either of our two 18 hole golf courses and then relax in our newly refurbished stunning hotel rooms with complimentary wifi and movies on demand.

Stay and play packages available from just $249 per night.

Phone reservations on (080 9297 3000 or email reservations@vines.com.au

The Vines Resort & Country Club Verdelho Drive The Vines WA | 9297 3000 | www.vines.com.au

July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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Western Australia located in Perth’s Swan Valley region, offers superb accommodation and two championship courses, Ellenbrook and The Lakes course.

The Swan Valley is also WA’s oldest wine growing region, so a great spot for exploring the local wineries on your free days. Joondalup Resort, just 30-minutes north of Perth, also offers on site accommodation and a spectacular 27-hole course layout with 3 x 9-hole composite courses, The Dune, Quarry and Lake courses.

Great Golf Getaways that is becoming easier now due to the fairways maturing and the greens starting to soften after five years of maturity.

open for business from Wednesdays to Sundays.

“It’s a typical Marsh design in that if you hit the ball long the fairways narrow, but the average distance off the tee has generous landing areas,” Breuker said.

Inside Golf did and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

The 202m par-3 17th from the tiger tees is challenging and a definite feature hole. From the members’ tees it’s 178m, the public tees 165m and the ladies tees 118m.

“When you stand on the tee it’s a very elevated green with a drop off to the right side,” Breuker explained. “It’s long and visually pleasing.”

Visitors are always welcome and can walk ($55 midweek and $65 on weekends) or ride. Cart hire is $45 for 18 holes.

The club’s restaurant and bar is

“We recommend everyone should play this golf course,” Breuker said.

Kalgoorlie Golf Course Phone: (08) 9026-2626 Email: golf@kalgoorliegolfcourse.com Web: www.kalgoorliegolfcourse.com GREAT GOLF GETAWAYS Great Golf Getaways provides customised golf tours and packages to Western Australia.

For the ultimate WA golfing experience, you can enjoy a combined tour itinerary that includes Perth, Mandurah and the Margaret River regions. Following are some of the top resorts and courses they recommend for your next WA tour: The Vines Resort & Country Club,

Just a 1-hour drive south from Perth, is the coastal township of Mandurah.

This is a great base for a 7-night stay with several top courses in the area including; The Cut, Meadow Springs, Secret Harbour Golf Links, Kennedy Bay, Mandurah Golf & Country Club, and also Kwinana Golf Club. Mandurah offers a wide range of accommodation options with beachside apartments being a popular choice for golf groups. Plan a day trip to the Margaret River wine region to sample some of Western Australia’s finest wines, or included an extended stay and play package with additional rounds at Dunsborough Lakes.

Contact Great Golf Getaways for further information on their latest range of WA golf tour packages available for club members, social clubs, corporate events or a family golfing holiday.

GREAT GOLF GETAWAYS National Travel Desk Tel: 1300 124 220 Email: info@greatgolfgetaways.com.au www.greatgolfgetaways.com.au

World Class Golf Course in the Outback

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Chasing the Sun Golf Festival Chasing the Sun Golf Festival has established itself as a brilliant Australian golfing experience. From the very first sip of champagne to toast the Sunrise on Saturday morning in Ceduna, through to your champagne toast to the setting Sun in Kalgoorlie, this is memorable journey.

The festival takes you on a drive to Australia’s famous oyster beds in Ceduna.

Then to the wheat and sheep farming districts, of Penong, Nundroo and the experience of a farm stay at Coorabie.

There, learn to shear sheep and enjoy a real Australian night, highlighted by Australian Singer/Song writer Bernie Scott.

The next day venture past the whales and the beautiful coast line at Nullarbor to arrive at the beaches of Eucla, to meet the Pirate and claim your treasure.

Clutching your gold, you move on to the remains of Skylab at Balladonia and the working sheep station at Fraser Range. The Indigenous art and dance of the Ngadju people in Norseman will features strongly in your memories of the festival. The next morning you journey on to nickel mining and land sailing at Kambalda and then finally to Australia’s gold capital Kalgoorlie.

During all this sightseeing and adventure, play your best golf on Nullarbor Links, The world’s longest golf course.

Chasing the Sun 2016 was amazing. Over 70 people enjoyed the journey, with 51 golfers and 6 international participants.

More: www.nullarborlinks.com.

Or contact Alf Caputo, alfiecap@ bigpond.net.au, 0407 990 049

Western Australia

Joondalup Resort and Country Club

Joondalup Resort and Country Club Rydges Kalgoorlie Resort and Spa

WHERE TO STAY-AND-PLAY Rydges Kalgoorlie Resort and Spa RYDGES Kalgoorlie Resort and Spa is a 4.5-star luxury resort that offers a style that is both casual and elegant.

It is perfect for the business or leisure travellers and is only 15 minutes from Kalgoorlie Golf Course.

The resort offers stay-and-play packages from $209 per night, which includes a deluxe studio room, 18-holes golf, buffet breakfast and free Wifi.

It is the only accommodation in Kalgoorlie with couples’ spa baths in all rooms and there are 91 studios, one- and two-bedroom accommodation all with new LCD 42-inch Sony Bravia televisions, 12 free Foxtel channels with movies, an indoor/outdoor swimming pool and heated spa.

There are versatile function and wedding areas and allday dining in Prime West Grill.

Call (08) 9080-0800 or book online www.rydges.com

Keishi Day Spa at The Vines

The Novotel Vines Resort

ON-SITE facilities at Joondalup Resort add to the experience of a great day on the golf course.

IF you want to stay-and-play golf in Perth, check out The Novotel Vines Resort and Country Club, which has spent $4m refurbishing the accommodation.

With fantastic rooms, superb restaurants and impeccable service, the resort is world-class.

The resort has par-3, par-4 and par-5 packages available.

It includes new modern bathrooms, new furniture, lush soft furnishings and new beds and Manchester.

The $350 Par-3 packages includes overnight accommodation in a deluxe standard room, nine holes of golf for two on the award-winning golf course with motorised cart and full buffet breakfast for two in Bistro 38.

And coffee-lovers will be impressed with the pod coffee machines (with real milk) in each room along with free in-room wifi (very high speed available at extra cost), and free in-house movies on demand and selected Foxtel channels for couch potatoes.

The Par-4 package ($410) includes overnight accommodation in a deluxe standard room, 18 holes of golf for two with cart and full buffet breakfast for two.

The Muscat’s Restaurant has also received a facelift and has launched a new winter menu featuring local produce, world-class Swan Valley wines and craft beers.

The Par-5 package ($520) includes overnight accommodation in a deluxe standard room, 18 holes of golf for two with cart, dinner for two in Bistro 38 (buffet on Saturday nights and a three-course menu Friday to Sunday) and full buffet breakfast for two.

The upgrade of the conference facilities, lobby, public and breakout spaces and the addition of the Keishi Day Spa completes the resort’s transformation.

Make sure to take in breakfast while you are there and watch as the resident kookaburras join you for a morning meal on the terrace.

Phone (08) 9400-8888 or go to www.joondalupresort.com.au

Capel Golf Club is renowned for its superb greens, known as the best greens in the South West of Perth.

The resort, designed to blend a relaxed country club atmosphere with the level of excellence expected of a Novotel Resort, overlooks the 36-hole championship golf course.

The resort offers great play-and-stay packages.

Phone (08) 9297-3000 or go to www.vines.com.au

Golf Course Guide Ranked #9 in WA

Green Fees 18 holes $35 9 holes $25

Monday Special 18 holes w/cart $42.50 pp 9 holes w/cart $27.50 pp

Capel Golf Club Inc. 1380 Bussell Highway Stratham, 10 minutes South from Bunbury P (08) 9795 7033 | Pro Shop (08) 9795 5023

www.capelgolfclub.org.au

Bunbury Golf Club ‘The Gateway to Golf in the South West’

www.bunburygolfclub.com.au - BOOK ONLINE & SAVE! Lucy Victoria Avenue Clifton Park WA 6233 08 9725 1231 July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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Golf on the

nsw central coast

Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club

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Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club When it comes to the delicious golf menu on offer along the Central Coast, the main course which tantalises the taste buds of every serious golfer is Magenta Shores, just north of The Entrance.

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Known for its golden beaches, pristine natural parks and alluring weather, the NSW Central Coast is also home to some tantalising golf courses. Here are a few of our top picks.

Toukley Golf Club Magenta Shores Golf Course Shelly Beach Golf Club Breakers Country club Everglades Country Club The Springs Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club & Golf Course

The highly-rated Ross Watson-designed links layout, home to the Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club and the centrepiece of the five star Pullman Magenta Shores Resort, definitely is on most golfers “must play” list.

Not only was the 10-year-old 6000m par-72 (5200m par-73 for women) oceanfront course rated this year by a national golf magazine as NSW’s top resort course, it also is listed as the sixth best of all courses in NSW and number 23 in Australia.

In NSW that puts it just behind time-

honoured rating favourites as NSW Golf Club, Ellerston, The Australian and The Lakes yet the Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club is far more accessible to all golfers.

Although Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club is a private club (the only one on the Central Coast), it generously offers, in conjunction with the Pullman Magenta Shores Resort and other golfplay operators a number of pathways that may lead to a tee-time if you book ahead.

This course has a slope rating of 142 off the Black tees, 138 off Blue, 137 off White, 138 off Red and 133 off Yellow, with plenty of bailout-from-trouble spots. It has a five-star practice facility, consisting of putting greens, a warm-up driving range and a chipping green with bunkers.

Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club’s membership owns the course but

Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club and Golf Course has a very close and effective working relationship with the five-star Pullman Magenta Shores Resort, a member of the Accor group of hotels.

location means that the course is able to stand up to some of the toughest weather conditions so golfers can book ahead with confidence.

This enables the club in partnership with the hotel to successfully facilitate a wide range of Play-and-Stay events and Corporate days. Consequently there are a wide variety of play-and-stay packages on offer all of the time.

In the 10 years since Magenta Shores opened, play has been cancelled only a handful of times because of inclement weather.

The Pullman Magenta Shores Resort regularly advertises packages on Golflink, Crazy Golf, Groupon and others and the hotel also advertises year-round offers on the Spoilt for Choice section of the Pullman Magenta Shores Resort web site.

Magenta Shores’ design and sand-base

With the Pacific Ocean on one side, Tuggerah Lakes on the other and Wyrrabalong National Park to the north, every hole at Magenta Shores offers the golfer a landscape with a variety of views to add to the enjoyment of the golf.

Magenta Shores clearly is a Central Coast golf feast to tempt the most

discerning player and the best part is the Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club membership often invites us all to dine.

Magenta Shores Golf and Country Club 1 Magenta Drive, Magenta 2261 (02) 4336 0100 membership@magentagolf.com.au www.magentagolf.com.au

Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club and Golf Course Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club and Golf Course members are certainly making the most of what they have got— issuing the proud and undisputed boast

that their spectacular layout is “the best 13-hole course on the Central Coast”.

Due to long and frustrating delays in the rebuilding of their original 18-hole course, they are (in the best traditions of golf ) not looking back, but forward, and enjoying the great holes they have left to play.

The situation certainly has provided some good-value golf with seven-day membership only costing $350 a year.

With only a 10-minute drive from the Gosford CBD it is the perfect place to play a competitive game of golf on a challenging and rewarding golf course.

Top-value deals also are available for

Overnight packages frOm just $90pp

Key Street, Toukley NSW 2263 | Tel.: (02) 4397 2309 www.toukleygolfclub.com.au | Email: toukley@oncoursegolf.com.au

Book now

www.golfandstay.com.au July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

21

Breakers Country Club Wamberal social golf groups with packages starting from as low as $18 a round and $30 for 18 holes and a cart.

Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club & Golf Course 18 Hallards Rd, Central Mangrove (02) 4373 1129 mmmclub@bigpond.com.au www.mmmclub.com.au

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | July 2016

Breakers Country Club Wamberal Formally known as Terrigal Golf Club or (Royal Terrigal to the locals) Breakers Country Club is a picturesque nine-hole golf course located near Terrigal Lagoon.

The perfect place to play nine holes either prior to spending a day with the family around Terrigal/Wamberal or after a long day travelling or at the beach. The course boasts challenging fairways and many water hazards with a picturesque,

tree-lined course.

your bookings, lessons and golfing tips.

The course has six par-4s and three par-3s and competitions are played over 18 holes using two different tee markers.

The course is challenging with narrow fairways and the greens are raised. It is flat, making it a relaxing and easy walk for all levels of golfers to enjoy.

Breakers Country Club boasts a great variety of dining, sports, entertainment and activities to choose from.

The clubhouse features fresh, modern dÊcor with spacious lounges and dining facilities with a spectacular outdoor deck, complete with children’s play area and a big screen television with a nine-hole golf course and two bowling greens.

The club has a variety of dining facilities

They also have a fully-equipped Pro Shop with Golf Professionals Chas and Nicole Henderson there to assist you with

Shelly Beach Golf Club with menus to cater for everyone’s needs from their Brasserie, Deck and Coffee Shop.

Breakers Country Club 64 Dover Rd, Wamberal NSW 2260 02 4384 2661 Proshop: 02 4384 5691 www.breakerscc.com info@breakerscc.com

Shelly Beach Golf Club Shelly Beach Golf Club, formerly known as Tuggerah Lakes Golf Club, is located on the New South Wales Central Coast. Described as a ‘hidden gem’ and acclaimed as the best golf course on the Central Coast, the course is set amongst the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and features typical seaside terrain guaranteed to challenge any standard of golfer. The front-nine winds its way close

to the beach with eye-catching views, established trees line most fairways and the course offers lush fairways and true greens. The course provides excellent practice facilities consisting of putting green, bunker and chipping green.

The golf shop has a comprehensive range of the latest golfing equipment at competitive prices along with expert advice.

The course is open 7 days a week for

members and visitors. Golfers enjoy a wide range of tournaments and competitions organised by the club, whilst the social scene offers something to tempt everyone, from BBQ breakfasts, to intimate dining, to fully catered functions.

Trade, corporate and social groups are most welcome. A corporate golf day at Shelly Beach Golf Club provides an ideal opportunity to network with clients and

July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

23

Toukley Golf Club staff or alternatively is a great fundraising avenue. Their professional team is available to help you co-ordinate every aspect of your golfing event.

The Shelly Beach Golf Club is the proud recipient of the 2010 NSW PGA City Pro-Am of the Year, 2012 NSW/ACT Club Professional of the Year and the 2013 and 2014 Winner, ClubsNSW People’s Choice Award – voted #1 Club in NSW. Green fees: 18 Holes – CCDGA Member: $24, Public: $40.Twilight (from 3pm) - $27.

Shelly Beach Golf Club Shelly Beach Road, SHELLY BEACH NSW 2261 Clubhouse (02) 4332 3400 / Golf shop (02) 4332 1103 www.shellybeachgolfclub.com.au info@shellybeachgolfclub.com.au

Toukley Golf Club Whether you are a youngster just beginning your golf journey, a mature player trying to maintain your form or a senior rekindling the competitive fires of glory days, Toukley Golf Club has you covered.

Not only does Toukley boast arguably the Coast’s most successful junior program, it also is the home of the NSW Super-Seniors Championship (over 65s).

The club’s junior scheme shone recently with Toukley’s PGA Trainee Robbie Hogan, who began golf there at age eight, winning the NSW-ACT PGA Trainees title.

Toukley offers a special golf experience for all levels of player. The par-72 layout on the front-nine is carved from a

Everglades Country Club melaleuca forest while the back nine stretches to the edge of the ocean and provides a more open links-style test.

So highly is Toukley rated, it will share the hosting of the Jack Newton Junior Golf NSW Championships this month with Shelly Beach and also in 2017.

Toukley Golf Club 1 Key Street Toukley 2263 (02) 4396 5811 www.toukleygolfclub.com.au admin@toukleygolfclub.com.au

A compact 5187m, the challenging, immaculate and well-bunkered layout is a pleasant walk, but it is rarely humbled, with par-68 for men and par-70 for women.

And the course is hardly ever closed, being regarded as one of the best wetweather layouts in NSW with sand-based fairways and well-drained greens. A club motto is “We play, rain, hail or shine.”

Everglades Country Club

Located near beaches, national parks and majestic waterways and within an hour’s drive from Sydney and Newcastle, Everglades offers many good value playing options for social golfers.

For almost 60 years, Woy Woy’s Everglades Country Club has been one of the most popular golf courses on the Central Coast.

One of the most outstanding offers currently featured is unlimited play after 2pm for only $20. Offer available 7 days.

Championship 18 hole Par 72 course, backing onto stunning Peats Ridge bushland.

Unwind with a drink at the Duck Inn after your round.

Enjoy lunch or Dinner at the Sitting Duck Bistro.

Full Menu Also Available Breakers Country Club 64 Dover Road WAMBERAL | (02) 4384 2661 info@breakerscc.com

www.breakerscc.com

24

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | July 2016

The Springs 1080 Peats Ridge Rd, Peats Ridge, NSW 2250 02 4373 1522 | www.the-springs.com.au

Great Golf Getaways The Central Coast is an exciting golf destination situated between Sydney and Newcastle and provides easy access for both local Sydney-siders and interstate visitors. Golf groups interested in a weekend golf getaway have a great choice of quality courses including Magenta Shores, Kooindah Waters, Shelly Beach, Gosford, Toukley and The Springs.

The Springs Central Coast Full unrestricted memberships are available for $680, which includes a $50 bar credit.

Everglades Country Club Dunban Road, Woy Woy NSW 2256 Phone (02) 4341 1866 www.everglades.net.au info@evergladescc.com.au

The Springs Central Coast This 18-hole, par-72 course is set amongst stunning bushland, with sloping contours and a panoramic rural vista of Peats Ridge.

Located just 40 minutes from Wahroonga and one hour from Newcastle, The Springs welcomes all players and promises a first class golf experience with many signature and scenic holes.

The course, originally designed by Graham Papworth and the late Al Howard, provides golfers of every ability with challenges, and presents an enjoyable round for all. Be sure to take advantage of the range of on-site facilities, including club hire, buggy and cart hire, golf lessons from their PGA accredited professional and the

The region’s picturesque coastal towns with scenic bays and inlets offers a relaxed lifestyle and the perfect destination for a golfing holiday. For golfers planning a longer trip of 7-14+ nights, a combined golf tour including the Central Coast, Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, just over an hour’s drive, also offers an interesting itinerary with an abundance of courses from which to choose.

Great Golf Getaways specialises in customised golf tours designed to suit your preferred dates, length of stay,

golf clinics that are run throughout the year. Unwind and refresh in the unique change rooms which are sure to surprise you. The pro shop is also well equipped with the latest golf gear and accessories from leading brands including Titleist, Bridgestone, Oakley, Nike Golf, and Greg Norman. A true luxury experience.

The Springs is an ideal venue and location to hold your next work retreat or corporate golf day; with 45 club cars,

choice of courses and accommodation to cater for your group size and tour plans. They have a great choice of accommodation including luxury villas and apartments which area ideal for golf groups and beachside resorts and hotels, to suit all types of golf trips. For interstate visitors they also arrange transportation and flights to suit the requirements for your personalised itinerary.

If you are planning your next social club trip, weekend getaway or group golf tour then consider a trip to NSW’s Central Coast to explore this exciting golf destination.

Customised packages to the Central Coast NSW are available for golf groups of all sizes.

For more information on package options, contact Great Golf Getaways Tel: 1300 124 220, email: info@ greatgolfgetaways.com.au, or visit www.greatgolfgetaways.com.au

large groups are very welcome and provided for. After the game, The Sitting Duck is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a beautiful meal.

The Springs 1080 Peats Ridge Rd, Peats Ridge, NSW 2250 02 4373 1522 www.the-springs.com.au admin@the-springs.com.au

Central Coast’s best kept secret

• 7 day membership only $350 p.a for the best 13 hole golf course on the Central Coast • Set in beautiful bushland, this Challenge-Reward golf course is only 10 mins from Gosford CBD • Enjoy fabulous food with views to the Ocean • Great deals for Social golf groups with packages starting from $18 through $30 for 18 holes with a cart!

Challenging and enjoyable 18 holes plus 2 Bowling greens Clubhouse caters for everything from coffee and cake to full bar & dining and all club facilities Explore Chivos Golf Technology centre for all the answers to your swing and enjoy unlimited play for $20 after 2pm - available 7 days!

Mangrove Mountain Memorial Club & Golf Course | 18 Hallards Road Central Mangrove | (02) 4373 1129 www.mmmclub.com.au | E: mmmclub@bigpond.com.au

Everglades Country Club Dunban Rd, Woy Woy, NSW, 2256 Phone: 02 4341 3399 www.everglades.net.au July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

25

Tee it up at the 2016 Queenstown International L

ooking for a getaway to one of the most beautiful places in the world with top class golf courses to match?

Then the 2016 Queenstown International in November may be exactly what you’re looking for.

Professional golfers Greg Turner and Lucas Parsons host this international team’s event, played across three days with two rounds at the magnificent Millbrook Resort and one round at Jack’s Point, set right at the foot of the Remarkables Mountain Range. The tournament offers golfers from all over the world a fantastic few days of

golf, with a bit of competitive edge thrown in for good measure. Teams will compete for prizes for the lowest net score over the three rounds, as well as daily prizes for the lowest net team score.

Staying at the luxury 5-star Millbrook resort, you’ll also enjoy three evening functions experiencing the best that the Central Otago region has to offer. With a range of packages available, including nongolfing options for partners, all the bases are covered.

Queenstown is New Zealand’s premium holiday destination, surrounded by

majestic mountains and nestled on the shores of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown offers a smorgasbord of outdoor activities to choose from not to mention to some of the best Pinot Noir vineyards in the world.

Queenstown is now firmly established as the jewel in the crown for New Zealand golf, with three championship courses in a very close proximity and at least six other top courses nearby.

Co-host of the New Zealand Open, Millbrook Resort’s 27-hole championship golf course is one of the most scenic

courses in the world and provides an exceptional golfing experience.

“You’ll find all three of the nine hole options quite different, through rolling countryside, spring creeks, clear streams, lots of trees and beautiful scenery,” Turner says. “It’s a great golf course, with plenty of challenges from the back tees but with nice wide expansive fairways”.

Millbrook also provides luxury accommodation from studios to Fairway Homes, each designed to complement the history and surrounds. Their awardwinning day spa offers golfers and guests alike a peaceful retreat with an extensive spa menu and tailored treatment packages.

Jack’s Point is billed as one of the world’s most spectacular layouts, carved from former high country station farmland, this beautiful course traverses through wetland to the lake’s edge encountering tussock grasslands, dramatic rocky outcrops and steep bluffs offset by striking alpine and lake views. The John Darby-designed course provides a range of challenges for all level of golfers, the course conditioning is always top-notch and the entire facility has a world-class, awe-inspiring feel.

With direct flights available from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane into Queenstown Airport, it’s never been easier to pop across for the 2016 Queenstown International in November this year.

2016 Queenstown International Dates: November 20 -24 Packages: Start from NZD $2,299 Register: nzgolfandtravel.co.nz

Read Inside Golf FREE on iPads If you love your monthly fix of Inside Golf, but can’t always get your copy before they’re all snapped up, then we’ve got some great news: our new and improved Inside Golf Digital iPad app is now available on the App Store... and it’s absolutely FREE.

Now, not only can you view current and back issues of your favourite golf magazine for free every month, but our new app includes the latest and breaking news across a variety of categories, tips and instruction, gear reviews, quizzes, puzzles, social media and more.

Plus, our unique Golf Map is updated each month with links to reviews and information about all courses featured in both the main magazine and Inside Golf Travel.

Download it today from the App store (search Inside Golf Magazine), or scan the QR Code. Alternately, get the link from our website or at http://goo.gl/ZAXaFD

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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | July 2016

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Planning your trip to Barnbougle and King Island

Cape Wickham Links

B

arnbougle has been a favourite destination for Aussie golfers for many years. But with the opening of the amazing new courses on King Island, the addition of Cape Wickham Links and Ocean Dunes to your Tasmania golf trip is a must; whether you do them on their own, or part of four-day trip incorporating Barnbougle Dunes and

Barnbougle Lost Farm. With three of these courses listed in the World Top 100, and with Ocean Dunes most likely to join that list after the imminent completion of its last three holes, there are very few places on the planet where you can get so much high quality golf in one small area.

So how do you plan a trip to King Island? Many people may have

experience organising their own trips to Barnbougle where the golf courses and accommodation are at the same location, all of which is accessible from Launceston Airport. However King Island is a little more complicated in that the courses are on two different parts of the Island and the accommodation options aren’t as straightforward as at Barnbougle. Add to

that the lack of transport options on this remote Island in Bass Strait, and you may be looking for assistance to help tick this destination off your bucket list.

Whether you want to take charter flights, which are surprisingly affordable and provide a lot of flexibility as well as access into Barnbougle’s private airstrip, or whether your preference is one of the handful of scheduled flight options that depart from a couple of different destinations, golf tour operators have the experience to advise you not only on the best way to get there, but on the available accommodation and ground transport options as well as on other activities to add to your weekend away when you are off the course each day.

And not only do these operators know the ins and outs of how to make the most of your golf trip, but if you find the right tour operator, it should not cost you one cent more to have them design and plan your trip. The right tour operator should be able to get you rates equal to or better than anything you could access yourself.

And this isn’t just the case for King Island, but for most golfing destinations around Australia, including Barnbougle.

So if you want to take all the hassle out of your next golf trip, the team at Exclusive Sports can provide great advice and do all the planning work for you, and it won’t cost you any more than if you booked it yourself.

For more information, go to www.exclusivesports.com.au, email info@exclusivesports.com.au or call them on (02) 9555 5195.

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 www.thailandgolftours.com.au

• 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 July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

27

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Vietnam, South to North

The drive through the country toward Danang pauses to play the new Luke Donald-designed Ba Na Hills Course.

The stay in the area is in Hoi An village, a UNESCO World Heritage site and wonderful place to walk around which is known for its crafts. Golf is enjoyed at the Danang Golf Club designed by Greg Norman and Montgomerie Links, both very testing layouts.

Fly to Hanoi during the morning before golf at BRG Legend Hill Golf Resort and arrival into Hanoi City. Enjoy a tour of Hanoi City including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature and the One Pillar Pagoda, Woman’s Museum and time for a walk through the Hanoi Old Quarter.

Danang Golf Club

V

from Hanoi on Wednesday 22 March.

The tour will be limited to 20 guests so early booking is essential to avoid disappointment.

The tour starts in Ho Chi Minh City in the South with a direct non-stop flight from Sydney on 07 March 2017 and returns

Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is a bustling metropolis of wide avenues and tiny alleys. The history dates back many centuries and is significant in modern times as the core during the reunification of the country. Australian chef Luke Nguyen has established a wonderful restaurant within walking distance of the hotel. The live theatre demonstrating life in Vietnam is not

ietnam is no doubt the new golfing destination of Asia, but as innovative golf tour operator Golf & Gourmet has proven there is much more to visiting Vietnam than golf alone.

The Vietnam South to North is a tried and true itinerary with a wonderful balance of highlights, great golf, dining experiences, cultural touring and a cruise on Halong Bay all add up to what can only be described as the best of Vietnam.

only cultural but a fast-moving acrobatic performance, is an optional experience.

Golf is enjoyed at the Vietnam Golf & Country Club, home of the Vietnam Masters Asian Tour Event and Long Thanh Golf Club, a wonderful Ron Fream layout. All golf on this tour includes carts, caddies, green fees and golf transfers.

Leaving Saigon, it is a short flight to Hue in Central Vietnam which is of historical significance and includes a visit to the Citadel and Khai Dinh Tomb as well as lunch locally.

Golf includes King Islands Golf Resort where a speed boat is used to get to the course, Van Tri Golf Club and Sky Lake Resort, all great courses and made better by smiling caddies that assist around the course.

A highlight of the tour is an overnight cruise on Halong Bay. This World Heritage listed region of over 3000 islands and limestone caverns is spectacular, an absolute must on any visit to Vietnam.

This tour has many different highlights and experiences, it is excellent value and as past guests have stated it is an excellent mix of many components that make up a tour that educates, enthralls and challenges.

More Information: Fred Sparksman, Golf & Gourmet. 0414 799 722 fred@golfgourmet.com.au.

JOIN US FOR THE 2016 QUEENSTOWN INTERNATIONAL Hosts Greg Turner and Lucas Parsons invite you to join them for this international teams event which brings together the best that the Queenstown region has to offer.

2 0 1 6 Q U E E N S TO W N I N T E R N AT I O N A L

NOVEMBER 20 - 24, 2016

You can pull together your own team or if you don’t have a team of four, we can make one up for you.

3 ROUNDS OF GOLF Millbrook & Jack’s Point

EVENINGFUNCTIONS FUNCTIONS 33EVENING Welcome Dinner, Queenstown Experience & Closing Ceremony

4 NIGHTS AT MILLBROOK RESORT

Packages start from $2,299.00 NZDpp REGISTER TODAY - PLACES FILLING FAST

nzgolfandtravel.co.nz

July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

29

RESORT OF THE MONTH >

Paradise Palms

– a tropical delight

By David Newbery

W

ITH new owners, a new management team, the addition of several new holes and a reconfigured layout, the splendid tropical Paradise Palms golf course near Cairns is again attracting plenty of attention, and deservedly so.

Wonderfully situated between two natural wonders, the Daintree World Heritage Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, Paradise Palms offers golf at its thrilling and scenic best.

Despite swapping the front and back nine holes, Paradise Palms remains enchanting and full of energy.

The back nine holes are now among the best anywhere and the 10th and 18th holes are in a class of their own.

Here, you detour through the rainforest, which provides an exhilarating backdrop to a round of golf.

The well-manicured, lush fairways and Tiff Dwarf greens add to the pleasure of the challenge and the heavily forested McAllister Range and the Coral Sea are never far from view.

Paradise Palms is a “cart only” golf course and with the brand-new Club Car fleet fitted with Visage GPS, golfers will leave the course feeling invigorated and ready to enjoy the luxury 4.5-star resort.

Still, there are choices. Does one lounge poolside or head for the restaurant to feast on the fresh local cuisine?

Paradise Palms has a history dating back to January 1990 when the Graham Marsh 30

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | July 2016

Nestled against the foothills of the McAllister Range and view to the Great Barrier Reef, Paradise Palms golf course is a “must-play” layout.

and Ross Watson-designed course opened to much fanfare.

It didn’t take long for it to gain a reputation for its quality, desirability and strength.

Marsh and Watson’s brief was to build a championship golf course that would test not just amateurs but also the best players in the world and judging by the challenge and degree of difficulty they certainly delivered on the high expectations of then owners – Daikyo.

Mind you, there are four tee positions that allow players of all levels to choose their own challenge.

Still, a study of each hole is important and tee shots must be measured.

Over the years, Paradise Palms golf course, which has a slope rating of 139 off the back tees and 131 off the white tees, has been the venue of a number of major tournaments.

No one will forget the Skins match in 1990 between Greg Norman, Curtis Strange, Bernhard Langer and Isao Aoki.

According to reports, the Shark described the course as one of the most difficult in the world.

Of course, playing a challenging layout is every golfer’s dream, or at least it should be.

In 1990, Paradise Palms also hosted the $400,000 Daikyo Legends of Golf won

by Bob Charles. Jenny Sevil captured the $300,000 Daikyo Ladies Challenge and American Meg Mallon took out the Daikyo World Championship.

This month (July 4-7), Paradise Palms will host the Qantas Golf Club Cairns Classic where some of the best professionals from Australia and New Zealand will go headto-head.

you hardly ever see them.

Paradise Palms general manager Peter Blackburn said it was an event “not to be missed”.

Driving, as you would expect on any championship course, is strategic while the approach shots call for accuracy … sometimes courage.

“The tournament marks almost a decade since the last Cairns Classic and it is the revival of many more tournaments the club will host,” he said.

THE COURSE Despite the changes that have been necessary, there is no doubt that Paradise Palms is moving in the right direction.

It’s easy to see why golfers boast Paradise Palms is the most spectacular and challenging golf course in North Queensland.

The 6331m (blue markers) and 5791m (white tees) championship course offers a combination of sweeping fairways, creeks and lakes, narrow undulating greens and 72 bunkers to keep you interested and your concentration levels high.

What is especially nice is the course has an intimate charm that gives the feeling you have the place to yourself.

There are no shared fairways and although there are other groups out there,

There are three lakes that come into play and all are stocked with barramundi, but don’t get any crazy ideas. They are ‘no fishing’ zones.

The first hole is a straightforward par5 (486m off the whites), however, things become decidedly tougher.

If you haven’t warmed up by the time you reach the 362m par-4 second hole (index 2) you’ll have to work hard to make par.

A creek cuts across from the left of the fairway, directly below the front apron of the green and hugs the edge of it all the way around the back.

It’s about now that those golfers who took advantage of the excellent shortgame practice facilities (putting, chipping and bunker area) are grateful they did.

Perhaps the most renowned hole is the 179m par-3 third.

Don’t be fooled by its beauty as you have to hit over a threatening creek, which also meanders down the left side of the green.

When the “sucker pin” is tucked behind the two bunkers that’s when the creek can come into play.

Make par here and you’ll be well satisfied.

“All the par-3s are different and have standout features,” said golf professional Neil McCree.

The front nine ends with four fine holes including the par-3 seventh played from an elevated tee to a green angled away from the line of entry.

After the challenging front nine, you’ll want to take a quick refreshment break and recuperate in the magnificent Queenslander-style clubhouse.

The back nine, 251m shorter than the front nine, offers a mix of challenging and formidable holes carved from natural rainforest.

The green on the par-3 14th hole is 40m long and rises quite steeply from front to back. Tip: keep your ball under the pin.

Holes 15 (par-4), 16 (par-4) and 17 (par-5) are formidable holes and carry indexes 5, 1 and 7 respectively.

Paradise Palms finishes with the spectacular 366m (white tees) par-4 that takes you back to the clubhouse.

“This is probably the signature hole because of the spectacular looking clubhouse as a backdrop,” McCree said.

Paradise Palms has long had a reputation for being an informal and welcoming club, and the clubhouse, not only an architectural gem, boasts one of the best bars and restaurants in TNQ. And when you stay-and-play at Paradise Palms, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find everyone is friendly and there isn’t a whiff of elitism to be found anywhere.

FACT FILE Accommodation at Paradise Palms comprises 84 luxury one- and two-bedroom suites. The resort’s rooms are the perfect choice for a getaway for two, a golfers’ escape or for some family fun. Each has a private balcony, luxurious king bed, spacious bathroom, full amenities and hotel services. Enjoy the lush gardens and irresistible pools.

Play-and-stay packages include a three night stay from $777. This includes accommodation in a resort room for two people, breakfast daily, two rounds of 18 hole golf per person including cart.

Dining: Paradise Palms Restaurant encapsulates the Tropical North Queensland lifestyle. Perfect for any occasion, the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It offers guests indoor and outdoor dining taking in sweeping views of golf greens while catching a fresh tropical breeze. Paradise Palms Restaurant and Bar are equally suited to a refreshing ale after a game of golf to an intimate dinner or celebration with family and friends.

Kids’ entertainment: Kids can roam free and explore the amazing adventure circus-themed

playground village. There is a superslippery slide and climbing frame and a giant 21m jumping pillow. There is also an 18-hole mini golf course.

Conference and events: When it comes to doing business, Paradise Palms offer the perfect setting in which to hold successful conferences, workshops and seminars. From opening sessions of 200 to breakout sessions in groups of two or three, the facility offer flexibility to meet your needs.

Corporate golf events: A corporate golf event is a fantastic networking opportunity to build business relationships, enhance company image, improve staff satisfaction and provide awareness of what your company has to offer.

Green fees: Visitors: 18 holes $120, nine holes $70 including golf cart.

Country and visitor membership

options are available.

Equipment hire: Standard clubs $35 and premium clubs $55.

Getting there: It’s a two-hour flight from Brisbane, or a three-hour flight from Sydney and Melbourne to Cairns International Airport.

Location: Just 20 minutes north of Cairns, Paradise Palms is in the heart of this adventurous, tropical metropolis. It’s ideally located among the lush, green rainforests and it’s only minutes from the unique northern beaches of Palm Cove, Clifton or Kewarra.

Address: Paradise Palms Drive, Kewarra Beach Qld 4879.

For more information: Telephone (07) 4059-9999, pro shop (07) 4059-9901 or resort (07) 40599900. Email: info@paradisepalms. com.au or visit the website www.paradisepalms.com.au

July 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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A FANTASTIC BLEND OF GREAT GOLF, TOURING, CULTURE, DINING AND A CRUISE ON HALONG BAY. 9 Ro Golf

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$1580 (pp twin

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DEPARTURES 2017: 19 Mar; 18 Apr; 08 May; 05 Sep; 12 Sep; 19 Sep; 10 Oct; 17 Oct; 07 Nov Golfer Twin Share $1580 | Non Golfers Twin Share $1110 Single Occupancy Golfer $2300

NEW GOLF TOUR SERIES – FOOD, WINE, GOLF FESTIVALS 5 DAYS/4 NIGHTS – 3 GOLF ROUNDS WITH CARTS, FESTIVAL ENTRY,4 NIGHTS HOTEL & BREAKFAST, ALL GOLF & FESTIVAL TRANSFERS AND A DINING EXPERIENCE

Includes: 4 Star Hotels, Full Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 1 Dinner; 9 Golf Rounds on Superb Golf Courses; Golf Carts & Caddies; Touring & Transfers PLUS An Overnight Cruise on Halong Bay. Escorted Tour also features Local Guides. $5633 Per Person Twin Share | $7443 Single Occupancy | $2899 Non Golfer Twin Share

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$985 (pp twin

SOUTH TO NORTH

DEPA T S 07 MAR RC 2017 H

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NOVEMBER 2016 - TOAST ON THE COAST – GEELONG & THE BELLARINE PENINSULA MARCH 2017 - TASTE OF RUTHERGLEN & YARRAWONGA GOLF MAY 2017 - LOVEDALE LONG LUNCH – HUNTER VALLEY

EXPRESS OF INTERIONS EST

2017 WINTER WARMERS TO: JULY - FIJI 7 DAYS 4 GOLF GAMES | APRIL - HAWAII THE BIG ISLAND – HAPUNA RESORT SEPTEMBER 2017 - GOLF & MUSIC – TOUR THROUGH MEMPHIS, NASHVILLE, NEW ORLEANS, AUSTIN AND FORT WORTH FOR SOUL, GOSPEL, BLUES, JAZZ AND COUNTRY & WESTERN MUSIC COUPLED WITH GREAT GOLF, DINING AND FUN. JULY 2017 - THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP – AT BIRKDALE.

TO RECEIVE OUR MONTHLY NEWSLETTER SIMPLY EMAIL US WITH YOUR NAME, EMAIL, TELEPHONE, MAILNG ADDRESS: anne@golfgourmet.com.au AND COMPLETE OUR 2017 GOLF QUIZ TO JOIN US FOR FREE ON A TOUR IN THE FESTIVAL SERIES. Go to www.golfgourmet.com.au or call Fred 0414 799 722