TRAVEL NEWS
www.insidegolftravel.com.au Publisher: Outdoor Sports Publishing ACN 113 836 301 ABN 30 043 104 919 PO BOX 437, Miami, QLD 4220 Editor: Richard Fellner M: 0407 000 440 E: richard@insidegolf.com.au Chief Writer: David Newbery E: david@insidegolf.com.au Accounts: Sheridan Murphy M: 0404 075 823 E: accounts@insidegolf.com.au Advert Technical Enquiries: Stacey Fortescue M: 0420 319 893 E: stacey@insidegolf.com.au National Sales: Sam Arthur P: 1300 465 300 F: (07) 5535 4922 M: 0410 575 303 E: sam@insidegolf.com.au NSW Sales: Robbie O’Donnell M: 0439 144 256 E: robbie@insidegolf.com.au Qld Sales: David Ross M: 0439 612 458 E: david.ross@insidegolf.com.au VIC/TAS/SA Sales: Jon Perrett M: 0402 852 637 E: jon@insidegolf.com.au Sales: Lisa Coleman M: 0406 031 344 E: lisa@insidegolf.com.au National Agency Sales (non Golf): Marc Wilson M: 0419 107 143 E: marc@gypsymedia.com.au New Zealand Sales: Daniel Sim M: 0439 856 752 E: daniel@insidegolf.com.au COVER PHOTO: Moonah Links Resort
Virgin Australia changes Los Angeles services
V
irgin Australia announced last month that it will increase services between Brisbane and Los Angeles, while ceasing Melbourne to Los Angeles services, effective 26 October 2014. Following this change, the Virgin Australia and Delta Air Lines trans-Pacific joint venture will offer two daily services between Sydney and Los Angeles and one daily service between Brisbane and Los Angeles (up from four weekly services previously). The additional Brisbane services will be flown by Virgin Australia’s three-class Boeing 777 aircraft. With the change, Virgin Australia will also cease services between Melbourne and Los Angeles, with the last flight operating from Melbourne on 25 October 2014. Effective 26 October 2014, there will also be a minor change to the departure time of Sydney to Los Angeles flights to allow an earlier arrival into Los Angeles. There will be no reduction in Virgin Australia capacity between Australia and the United States following these changes. Virgin Australia’s Chief Commercial Officer Judith Crompton said: “We work closely with our alliance partner Delta Air Lines to review our trans-Pacific services and ensure we are meeting the needs of our customers and our commercial objectives.
“The changes announced today are a result of extensive market analysis. Having the right frequency is very important to corporate and leisure customers and moving to daily flights from Brisbane enables us to provide more choice and flexibility to those travelling to and from Queensland. “Those travelling from Melbourne will still be able to travel to Los Angeles on one ticket with through-checked baggage, connecting through Sydney or Brisbane, and we are committed to providing competitive fares on these routes.
“North America is an extremely important market for Virgin Australia and we continue to work with our partner Delta Air Lines to enhance our customer offering on the trans-Pacific”, Crompton said. Customers that have already booked on a direct Melbourne to Los Angeles service for travel on or after 26 October 2014 will be contacted by their travel provider to discuss alternative options. Customers travelling on Sydney to Los Angeles services on or after 26 October 2014 will receive an email to confirm the new, earlier departure time. •
Luxury Boutique GoLf HoLidays 2015 Masters tour 2015 | BritisH open 2015 BRiTish OPEN 2015 GREEN JACKET PACKAGE: Bonus inclusions • 3 DAYS at Masters Tournament • 13 nights luxury accommodation Pebble Beach, Pinehurst including brand new 5 star suite hotel in Augusta • Playing golf at Pebble Beach | Spyglass | Pinehurst No 2 | The Reserve Club Woodside – plus other amazing courses • Motorised carts and range balls • 3 dinners at Pinehurst ala Carte Restaurants Guaranteed Small Groups
All itravel packages include: • • • •
Welcome dinners Daily cooked breakfast Luxury Accommodation Pre-golf clinic and lessons with PGA Professional • Private transfers • Tour guide • Golf competitions and prizes
• 6 games of golf playing at Kintyre | Ailsa | Old Course Royal Troon | Carnoustie and *Muirfield plus more • British Open 2 days Friday/Sunday • 10 nights luxury accommodation • Private Whisky Tasting Experience, Castle and City Tour • Putting tournament with antique putters • Traditional Scottish Dinner Evening with Piper • Travel Insurance *Muirfield available to the 1st 12 players booked and paid
iRElANd TOuR 2015 • 5 games of golf playing at Ballybunion | Waterville | Tralee | Portmarnock K Club Links – Palmer/Ryder Course • 7 nights luxury accommodation
Additional Cost for airfares for all packages with QANTAS available on inquiry
Other Packages Available • Masters Week Augusta Package (6 nights) • Las Vegas Package Extension (4 nights) Stacey Arthur | www.itravel-au.com | p: 02 42850711 | m: 0402 327 606 | e: stacey@itravel-au.com | NSW T/A Licence No. 2TA4250 All information is correct at time of print and is subject to change without notice, due to matters outside our control such as adverse currency fluctuations, taxes and fuel surcharges
September 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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The Mornington Peninsula:
Australia’s golfing playground
Moonah Links Resort
Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula is one of Australia’s most popular golfing destinations. Featuring some of the country’s highest-rated courses along with jaw-dropping scenery, golfers are spoiled for choice.
A
Moonah Links Golf Academy - which has played host to Golf Australia and the Australian Institute of Sport elite player development programs.
More information: www.peppers.com.au/moonah 1300 362 386
The Open Course is a true test of golf. Designed to host the Australian Open, the course is long, challenging and full of riskreward situations. It is a visually stunning course that offers some of the most amazing scenery around, and some of the best-conditioned greens in the area.
With the largest fleet of motorized golf carts in Victoria, a comprehensive pro shop, 92 luxuriously appointed guest rooms, restaurant, spike bar, extensive banquet and conference facilities and ancillary recreational facilities such as a swimming pool and tennis courts, Moonah Links Resort constitutes one of the finest, most comprehensive Golf Resorts in the country.
St Andrews Beach is a standout amongst a fine selection of courses on the Mornington Peninsula. Golfers sing high praise for this Tom Doak-designed beauty which is one of the highest-rated public access courses in Australia.
rguably one of the premier Golf Resorts in Victoria, Moonah Links Resort offers two world-class championship golf courses each boasting superior course conditions which assure year-round playability.
The Legends Course offers the perfect complement to the Open Course. While equally stunning in both design, scenery and conditioning, the Legends Course gives golfers of all levels a setting that is fun and challenging. Complementing the course facilities are a driving range and practice facilities designed to Australian Institute of Sport specifications and one of the foremost elite training facilities in world golf – The
Since opening in late 20113 Moonah Links Resort has achieved global recognition and acclaim having hosted five major internationally telecast tournaments: the 2003 and 2005 Australian Open Golf Championships and the 2008, 2009 and 2010 Moonah Classic. Both the Moonah Links Open Course and the Moonah Links Legends Course have consistently been ranked the Best Conditioned Golf Courses in Australia.
STAY
Play, Stay & Dine at Mercure Portsea Golf Club & Resort
Doak’s design philosophies and the nature of the land provide a unique golfing experience with generous fairways and spectacular greens. Whilst most links style courses conjure up thoughts of strong winds, the natural valleys and trees that make up the landscape of St Andrews Beach offer protection from the elements on many holes, and combined with the quickdraining, sandy soil of the area you have a great course that can be enjoyed yearround by players of all abilities. The course is
PLAY
p
from $189p Twin Share
a true challenge for experienced golfers yet it is also still extremely playable and fun for social golfers. Travelling golfers will also be delighted with the spacious, two bedroom apartments providing on-site accommodation. The apartments are selfcontained and provide a perfect base for your Mornington Peninsula getaway with a host of other courses and attractions just a short drive away. There is even a private short game facility available exclusively for guests of the apartments to sharpen their game for the course proper. A large fleet of motorised carts is available to accommodate groups of any size and ongoing investment in the network of paths continues without detracting from the natural beauty of this memorable layout. More information: www.standrewsbeachgolf.com.au (03) 5988 6000.
DINE • Located on the tip of the beautiful Mornington Peninsula only 90mins from Melbourne CBD. • Packages from $189pp twin share - includes one night accommodation in a superior golf views room, 18 holes of golf, full breakfast & 2 course dinner. Package available for stays Sun-Thu nights and golf Mon-Fri subject to availability. Excludes special events and school holiday periods (terms and conditions apply).
Bookings and enquiries: (03) 5981 6100 | email: stay@portseagolf.com.au | web: www.portseagolf.com.au | Quote: “Inside Golf ” 4
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2014
September 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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St Andrews Beach Just a short drive to the east side of the Peninsula is the lovely and picturesque Flinders Golf Club, an 18-hole seaside beauty built along an amazing stretch of land overlooking Bass Strait. Though it may seem a bit detached from the other well-known Mornington courses, in reality it’s only 15 minutes away from the Cape Schanck area, so it is well within reach for a social group weekend or casual round. The great Golf Architect Dr Alister Mackenzie was so impressed with the course during a visit in 1926 that he was quoted as saying that Flinders was “equalled by only one other natural course, which is in California.” (He was referring to Pebble Beach.) Flinders is arguably one of the more underrated courses on the Peninsula.
Flinders Golf Club While it isn’t long by any stretch, it still has plenty of bite. A handful of the par-4’s are easily drivable, yet if you are even slightly off-line you can forget about par, as you’ll be contending with deep bunkers, tall trees and any number of ball-grabbing shrubs or hazards.
always in fantastic condition. Ultra slick, deceptive, undulating and creatively contoured, these greens roll extremely true, yet the breaks and pace can be almost impossible to read correctly. Thus, your approach shots have added importance at Flinders.
originally comprised a 9-hole golf course set amongst 300+ date and cocos palm trees and was then known as Mt Martha Valley Country Club. In 2000 the course was re-developed as an 18-hole course and the name changed to Safety Beach Country Club.
The par-4 fourth, the club’s signature hole, is a short but spectacular hole named The Coffin. Originally a par-3, it was redesigned into a par-4 by Mackenzie, who moved the green back and behind the “Purgatory Ravine”, thus transforming it into one of the most memorable holes on the Mornington Peninsula.
Overall, Flinders is a fantastic, fun and challenging course. And the members and staff are all top-notch, friendly and welcoming. Perfect for social groups or a casual day of golf, Flinders is a great venue that doesn’t disappoint.
The Country Club now boasts an 18hole par-68 golf course, 4 tennis courts, swimming pool and a lovely clubhouse with café, coffee shop, bar and patio overlooking the 18th green. With some 400 houses around the perimeter of the golf course, a real community atmosphere is a major selling point of the Country Club Estate.
In truth, all the holes on the course are special. Each with its own unique ocean view, character and challenge. But the real test at Flinders is on and around the splendid greens – which are
More information: www.flindersgolfclub.com.au (03) 5989 0312. Safety Beach Country Club was one of the first integrated residential/sporting estates in Victoria. Opened in 1989, it
The Safety Beach Pro-Am is an annual fixture on the calendar, with 72 Professionals and 120 amateurs tackling the easy-walking course. Each year the
Best value for money golf on the Mornington Peninsula
cial GrGeaolft ASo er 3pm ft o Arv feels& enea GreD 10ub $Cl Carts e c ri P Half To ow N ll Ca ip for MembershYow eek $20Inper ur derok unBo Group!!!
www.devilbendgolf.com.au • (03) 5978 8470 6
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2014
Safety Beach Country Club golf course is praised for the quality of its greens and the smooth running of the event, which is due to the hard work of the staff and army of volunteers.
days a week. So if you’re a golfer, a tennis player or just someone who enjoys a coffee in friendly surroundings, check out Safety Beach Country Club.
Even with 70+ of Victoria’s top professionals, this short but challenging course manages to hold its own and is rarely conquered. 4- or 5-under is normally the winning mark, although a course record 61 was recorded by John Horvath in 2009.
More information: www.safetybeachcountryclub.com.au (03) 5981 0100.
The Country Club has recently developed an 18 hole mini-golf course set in a picturesque natural amphitheatre, 3 levels of play available- easy, intermediate, and hard. Mini-golf will provide a fun day for families and single players alike and is a great venue for children’s birthday parties. Safety Beach is open to the public 7
Portsea Golf Club consistently ranks in the top 50 golf courses Australia wide and with its new modern clubhouse, hotel and course upgrades, it is a must-play for golfers visiting the Peninsula. With sweeping views of nearly the entire course, the new clubhouse is a great place to enjoy a fine meal or beverage after a round. With an integrated 4-star hotel incorporating 24 boutique rooms the facility is well equipped for “Stay & Play”, Corporate Golf Days, Functions,
Conferences and Weddings. Located on the tip of the Mornington Peninsula adjacent to Point Nepean National Park, the course was re-routed in June 2013, with golfers now reporting they prefer the new layout as it is more balanced and has a more free-flowing, natural feel. The first hole (the former 6th) is a gentle uphill par-4 that sets the stage for the day, and eases you into your round. Finishing the round is also more enjoyable with the new configuration, as holes 16-18 (formerly 3-5) provide a mixture of risk-reward that allows you to play conservatively or aggressively, depending on your situation. The 18th is an especially enjoyable closing hole, as the gentle dogleg gives way to a small and slick green which is well-guarded by bunkers and swales.
Most impressive, however, are the Portsea greens. In impeccable condition, they are smooth, receptive, true-rolling and a pleasure to putt on. Portsea has earned a fine reputation over the years, especially with golf professionals. The club’s Pro-Ams and Open Amateur are considered Must-Play events by many, and have played host to names like Robert Allenby, Geoff Ogilvy and a ‘who’s who’ of the entertainment world. Although a private club, Portsea welcomes non-member golfers to enjoy their fabulous facility on allocated golf days, and provides golf enthusiasts fantastic “Stay and Play” packages. More information: www.portseagolf.com.au (03) 5981 6100.
Playing once won’t be enough... so stay a little longer!
Now Victoria’s highest ranked public access course
Modern, self contained accommodation
Stay & Play at St Andrews Beach St Andrews Beach Golf Course on Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula continues to inspire golfers from around Australia and the world! This classic Tom Doak design is easily accessible, just over an hour from Melbourne via Peninsula Link. St Andrews Beach is now offering modern self-contained, on-site accommodation, as well as a large fleet of motorised carts for hire, group catering packages and food & beverage options. Make a round at the stunning St Andrews Beach Golf
www.standrewsbeachgolf.com.au
Course an essential part of your next visit to the marvellous Mornington Peninsula.
Sandy Road, Fingal, Victoria 3941 | PH: 03 5988 6000
September 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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Portsea Golf Club
Rosebud Country Club
With 36 holes of championship golf, bowls, four-star accommodation and a superb clubhouse with bistro meals, TAB and the View Restaurant, Rosebud Country Club is the golfing jewel on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula. Its two 18-hole courses offer a contrasting experience. The North course, which has hosted two national championships, is framed by large pine trees while the South boasts wide fairways and large greens. The golf shop has a wide range of golfing equipment and apparel, while Teaching professional Matt Bolton operates the Bolton Performance Golf which caters for group and individual lessons. The clubhouse is one of the finest in the region. Large windows provide a superb view of the course and there’s a choice of bistro meals throughout the day and the popular View Restaurant which is open for dinner and lunch seven days a week.
More information: www.rosebudcountryclub.com.au (03) 5950 0800. Overlooking Rosebud Country Club, the 4-star Fairways Resort enjoys an enviable location, with a secluded bushland setting that’s only a few minutes from the seaside village of Rosebud. In-house guests are entitled to favourable green fee rates on Rosebud’s two courses. With onsite golf, restaurant, bar and bistro, Fairways Resort is an ideal place for a Mornington Peninsula golfing escape. Fairways Resort is just minutes’ drive from many of the region’s other top visitor attractions. Including 15 local golf courses within a 5 – 15 minute drive; the Peninsula Hot Springs with its indulgent mineral baths is just down the road as is Point Nepean National Park with its magnificent walks and ocean views.
With 40 generously-sized guest rooms, all with king size beds, private courtyards, LCD television and inverter climate control systems, Fairways Resort is also perfect for groups— there are several larger 2-bedroom and twin suites, while superior rooms include the Executive Suite and Spa Suite. More information: www.fairwaysresort.com.au 1300 363 349. Established in 1973 and located in the ‘Heart of the Peninsula’, Devilbend Golf Course provides a great day’s golf on a course that has magnificent couch fairways, and fast smooth greens. It is a challenging 18-hole layout at almost 6000m, set amidst a flora and fauna reserve, which features beautiful waterways and an abundance of birdlife.
Over the past five years a huge capital works program has been implemented with five new greens, and major drainage works on many of the fairways--resulting in vast improvements to the course. Each hole provides magnificent views of undulating countryside and provides a variety of challenges for all golfers. Facilities include a driving range, practice nets and a large practice putting area. The clubhouse is renowned for its friendly atmosphere. The bar and bistro operate on competition days, while meals are generous and well priced. The golf shop is equipped for all your needs and lessons can be arranged with the professional staff. Bookings are required and moderate dress standards apply. More information: www.devilbendgolf.com.au (03) 5978 8470.
Contact our Team on (07) 3382 6062 Fax (07) 3386 1801 E: sales@rainy-day.com.au 23 Commerce Circuit, Yatala QLD 4207
10 Country Club Drive Safety Beach VIC 3936 Phone: (03) 5981 0100 Email: admin@safetybeachcountryclub.com.au
Challenging (26 lakes) but not hilly Manageable & fun for seniors & casuals Affordable fees & refreshments
Phone: (03) 9728 8300 Factory 5, 209 Liverpool Rd, Kilsyth, VIC 3137
to get you there and keep you dry GOLF CAR TILT TRAILER
#18 hole Mini golf course
Midweek special
Trailers are made from quality materials • Brand new tyres/wheels/hubs • Galvanised - no more rust • Transport your buggy in style • Pickup available in QLD, NSW & VIC
$35 each to share a cart for 18 holes
Monday special
$16 for 18 holes, $13 for 9 holes REAR BAG COVER
www.safetybeachcountryclub.com.au 8
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2014
6 Can Esky
Club and ball washEr
hub CaPs
sand bOTTlE
www.rainy-day.com.au || www.canvasseatcovers.com.au www.canvasseatcovers.com.au www.rainy-day.com.au www.marinetechindustries.com.au www.marinetechindustries.com.au
Fairways Resort The Mornington Peninsula Golf Trail should be on every golfer’s “Bucket List”. World-famous architects, such as Thomson Perrett, Robert Trent Jones Jr and Tom Doak, have created wonderful examples of links, resort and traditional courses for the Golf Trail. The courses provide exhilarating views over Port Phillip and Westernport Bays and Bass Strait. Eleven of the Mornington Peninsula Trail courses have been named by Golf Australia magazine as being in their Top 100 Australian courses. The Mornington Peninsula Golf Trail provides a unique golfing experience of playing fourteen different courses that are all within 1 hour’s drive. Avid golf enthusiasts and social golfers are discovering that the combination of courses, their accessibility, their variety and the sheer number of them provides a golfers’ paradise that is hard to resist.
Enjoy golf on the Mornington Peninsula Golf Trail
Once seven different courses on the Mornington Peninsula Golf Trail have been played, golfers are rewarded with a polo shirt and cap. After the remaining seven courses are played, golfers receive a framed photograph of the Mornington Peninsula Golf Trail. Contact Mornington Peninsula Golf Tourism on 0439 396 617 or email info@ morningtonpeninsulagolftrail. com.au to have the Golf Trail posted out or pick up the Golf Trail at any golf course, tourism outlet or Visitors Information Centre on the Mornington Peninsula.
Check out our website for more in-depth information, reviews and photos of these great Mornington Peninsula Courses: www.insidegolf.com.au •
The Mornington Peninsula Golf Trail
The Flinders Golf Club “Flinders is one of those unique coastal courses…….not quite links…..neither is it woodland or marsh, that perches high on the cliff top, making it a distant cousin of Pebble Beach and a relative of Murfield.... The Flinders golf course is friendly yet full of surprises and intrigue. Bring all your clubs because you are going to need them and a good understanding of what Golf is all about.” Peter Thomson OBE
Green fees: Weekend $49 Midweek $35 Exceptional Corporate Golf and Social Group packages are now available.
Book online and receive a further $5 discount www.flindersgolfclub.com.au Proshop: (03) 5989 0583 September 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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Jarrod Lyle to host Moonah Links Pro-Am
T
he 2014 Moonah Links Pro-Am has been scheduled for Friday 14 November 2014 – the Friday prior to the Australian Masters – and it promises to be a starstudded event. Jarrod Lyle, fresh from his return to the US PGA Tour will host the event and is certain to encourage a few of his famous friends to join in the fun and test their skills on Moonah Links’ acclaimed Open Course.
03 5988 2047 or email moonah@moonahlinks.com.au
In synergy with a cause that is very close to Jarrod’s heart, Challenge will be the charity of choice on the day with raffles, auctions and Leuk the Duck merchandise for sale – all raising vital funds to support kids with cancer. The morning field, teeing off at 7.00am will be open to the general public to enter and play whilst the afternoon field, teeing off at 1.00pm will play host to Moonah Links’ sponsors and celebrity entrants. Spectators are welcome! Limited sponsorship packages are still available from just $1,500.00. Join Inside Golf Magazine as we proudly support Jarrod Lyle, Challenge and the 2014 Moonah Links Pro-Am. Jarrod Lyle, with Leuk The Duck, the mascot for Challenge.
For further information on Sponsorship Packages or to register your interest to play in the 2014 Moonah Links Pro Am contact Tania Popko, Moonah Links’ Sales & Marketing Manager on 0404 051 049 or taniapopko@gmail.com •
About Challenge For over 30 years, Challenge has provided children living with cancer and their families an opportunity to interact with others in similar circumstances. Challenge focuses on the immediate everyday (non-medical) needs of their members, namely the children, who are the primary focus, and their families. Their kids’ programs include Challenge playgroup, camps, activities, ticketing, celebrity experiences, music and art therapy and in-hospital support which includes providing hospital patients with access to computers, the internet, Foxtel, DVDs and gaming consoles. Family programs also include lunches and weekends away for parents, home help (including cleaning houses, shopping, meal preparation and lawn mowing), family holiday accommodation in three locations outside of Melbourne, monthly hospital parent dinners, transportation and financial assistance. They also operate the Challenge Family Centre where children and their families can access an extensive range of non-medical support services including playgroup, music therapy, massage therapy and a resource library. For more information: www.challenge.org.au •
CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP PACKAGE Just $9900 per annum Join before 24 December 2014 – quote: ‘inside golf magazine’ and receive:
2 STAY & PLAY PACKAGES AT PEPPERS MOONAH LINKS VALUED AT APPROX. $650ea.
Join before 24 December 2014 – magazine’ and receive: 2 STAY & PLAY PACKAGES AT PEPPERS MOONAH LINKS VALUED AT APPROX. $650ea. *These stay & play packages will be offered as prizes for your corporate golf day. quote: ‘inside golf
Corporate membership package includes:
*These stay & play packages will be offered as prizes for your corporate golf day.
•
Unlimited playing rights on both the Open and Legends Courses for 2 nominees
(additional nominees can be addedpackage – price on application) Corporate membership includes: •
•
••
•
•• •• • •
•
•• •• •
Discounted guest green fees – currently $50.00 per person per round
Unlimited playing rights on both the Open and Legends Courses for 2 nominees (maximum of 3 guests per nominee aton any one time) (additional nominees can be added – price application) Discounted motorised cart hire – currently Discounted guest green fees – currently $50.00 $30.00 per personper percart roundper round Free range (maximum of 3balls guests per nominee at any one time) Discounted cart hire – currently per cart per round Eligibility tomotorised play in Medallion Member$30.00 Competitions Free balls on all purchases in Moonah Links’ Pro Shop 10%range discount Eligibility to play in Medallion Member Competitions (excludes hardware and already discounted items) 10% discount on all purchases in Moonah Links’ Pro Shop Handicap management for both nominees (excludes hardware and already discounted items) 2 complimentary one lessons with our Teaching Professional Handicap management forhour both nominees complimentary 9 hour holelessons playingwith lesson with ourProfessional Teaching Professional 21 complimentary one our Teaching 1 complimentary 9 hole playing lesson with our Teaching Professional
... and in addition to the above: Your corporate membership includes the
... and in addition to the above: corporate membership includes the opportunity to host your ownYour corporate golf day! opportunity to host your own corporate golf day! •
•
A corporate golf day for up to 72 players* (includes green fees, shared motorised cart hire and scorecard
A corporate golf day for up to 72 players* (includes green fees, shared motorised cart hire and scorecard collation)OROR choose to receive 72 guest green fee vouchers (inclusive of shared motorised collation) choose to receive 72 guest green fee vouchers (inclusive of shared motorised cart hire) in lieucart hire) in lieu Corporate forwithin playthe within the 12ofmonths of the membership term) ofofaaCorporate GolfGolf DayDay (valid(valid for play 12 months the membership term)
*Corporate Golf Days be scheduled midplay week play theof12the months of the term membership term *Corporate Golf Days mustmust be scheduled for midfor week within the within 12 months membership **Food Packages for corporate golf days aredays available at additional subject cost to menu selection **Food&&Beverage Beverage Packages for corporate golf are available atcost additional subject to menu selection
For contact the Moonah Links Membership Team on 03 5988 or email moonah@moonahlinks.com.au Forfurther furtherinformation information contact the Moonah Links Membership Team on2047 03 5988 2047 or email moonah@moonahlinks.com.au 10
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2014
In the Garden City,
don’t forget to smell the flowers BLOOMING MAGIC: Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers parade at its best.
There is perhaps no more romantic adventure than playing golf and stopping to smell the flowers along the way, writes DAVID NEWBERY
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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2014
A
VID golfer, amateur ukulele player and bon vivant Ian and his non-golfing, horticulture-loving wife Judith are about to tick off another item from their joint bucket list. Ian, a good mate, will get his wish and play golf on two championship golf courses while she happily takes the advice of 11-time major winner Walter Hagen: “You’re only here for a
short visit. Don’t hurry, don’t worry. And be sure to smell the flowers along the way.” The clue here is golf and flowers. And where is the best place to play golf and smell the flowers in spring? Toowoomba, that’s where. Yes, the Sunshine Coast couple will join tens of thousands of like-minded people and head to Toowoomba for
the spectacular Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers from September 19-28. “This trip has been on our bucket list for quite a while and we can’t wait to get up there and experience what’s on offer during the Carnival of Flowers and play some golf,” Ian told Inside Golf. Toowoomba, 700 metres above sea level and a scenic 90-minute drive from Brisbane, has two championship golf courses – Toowoomba Golf Club (Middle Ridge) and City Golf Club. While the legendary American golfer Walter Hagen never made it to Toowoomba, fellow great Gene Sarazen, a seven-time major winner, did. Greg Norman, Gary Player, Norman von Nida, Bobby Locke, Bruce Crampton, “Babe” Didrichson and Peter Senior have also made the trek up the range to play some golf and to no doubt smell the flowers. This month, the tourist-friendly inland city will host the 65th Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers – a 10-day celebration that will exhibit stunning gardens, fine wines, exceptional regional produce, inspired fashion and arts and a musical line-up of national headline acts. The carnival has become a platform for fine wines and foods, stunning music, fashion and arts talent, rounding out as one of the leading food, arts and floral celebrations anywhere in the world. Organisers have cleverly labelled the 10day celebration – Eat. Laugh. Play. Stay. That’s because there is something for everyone.
Toowoomba & Darling Downs Scan the QR Code below to see all the golfing antics in Toowoomba
WHERE THE gRaSS iS alWayS greener! Offering two championship courses in the heart of the city and over 10 charming country-style courses only a short drive from the CBD, Toowoomba & Darling Downs offers a refreshing slice of life for your next golfing getaway! Toowoomba & Darling Downs is a region of unparalleled beauty, offering the release from big city pressures to enjoy country pleasures. Take the time to indulge your senses with locally-harvested fresh produce to tease the tastebuds, unearth boutique providers, unique cellar doors and experience the character of the regions true-blue country pubs. From the moment you arrive you will be overwhelmed by the region’s beauty, history and diversity, where you will experience a warm welcome and an opportunity to share our authentic way of life.
For more information contact: Toowoomba VisiTor informaTion CenTre
86 James St (Warrego Hwy), Toowoomba Q 4350 freecall 1800 33 11 55 infocentre@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au www.toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au/events
HampTon VisiTor informaTion CenTre
8623 New England Highway, Hampton Q 4352 freecall 1800 009 066 hamptoninfo@toowoombaRC.qld.gov.au www.toowoombaholidays.info
City Golf Club, home of
The Coca-Cola Queensland PGA Championship September 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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SHOW TIME: The iconic Empire Theatre.
Away from golf and magnificent flower gardens, visitors will be able to indulge in locally produced food and wine, enjoy live entertainment, view classic and vintage cars and take in a show at the iconic Empire Theatre and much more during their visit. In fact, the Carnival of Flowers features more than 17 events across 21 venues starring 130 performers including five chefs headlined by Alive and Cooking chef James Reeson along with ABC TV Gardening Australia’s gardening guru Josh Byrne. The festival offers fine regional fare at the Farm-to-Plate space as well as cooking demonstrations. Queens Park, Toowoomba is a hub of activity for the Ergon Energy Flower, Food and Wine Festival from September 19-21. Live entertainment will include Icehouse, Killer Queen Tribute Band, Bjorn Again Deborah Conway and Willy Zygier, The Kite Strings Tangle, Saskwatch, San Cisco et al. There’ll be a fireworks and laser show, fashion parade, children’s activities and Grand Central Floral Parade. Queens Park will host belly dancing sessions, Divas in the Park and Pilates classes while Laurel Bank Park will hold the popular Twilight Tours (September 22-24). The Talking Pubs Tour, Classic Car Awards, the Beatles Exhibition, Royal Bull’s Head Inn night ghost tour and train rides are just a sample of what’s on during the Carnival of Flowers. “This is one of the most exciting programs we have ever staged,” said Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio. Last year the Carnival of Flowers attracted more than 117,000 people and that many can’t be wrong – right? Of those, 62,851 were from outside the region. “The results were amazing,” said Cr Geoff McDonald. “Some 58,850 people stayed between 2-3 nights and 12,123 stayed 4-5 nights with an economic return of $26.6 million.” Toowoomba is renowned for its warm welcome so pack the golf clubs and head for the Garden City. Oh, and don’t forget to smell the flowers along the way.
GOLF: Queensland’s second oldest golf club, Toowoomba Golf Club at Middle Ridge celebrates its 118th birthday this month. In 1896, 21 Darling Downs community members, keen to introduce golf to the region, formed the club. In fact, the club had four addresses before settling on its current site in 1925. Originally designed as a links layout, the picturesque course is set on the edge of the Great Dividing Range just 90 minutes west of Brisbane and two hours from the Gold Coast. Transformed over the years, the course now presents rolling tree-lined kikuyu fairways with Penncross Bent greens that provide the ultimate complement to the wellappointed clubhouse featuring a spacious alfresco deck overlooking the 18th hole. 14
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2014
“Few golf clubs can boast the great Gene Sarazen has played their course let alone other notable players including former world number one Greg Norman, Gary Player, Norman von Nida, Bobby Locke, Bruce Crampton and “Babe” Didrichson,” said general manager Steve Owen. “All were impressed with the challenges presented.” Not overly long by today’s standards, members and visitors have to think their way around the course to score well. The club has reciprocity agreements with 35 clubs throughout Queensland – 11 of which have 100 per cent rights. Other reciprocal clubs include nine in NSW, one in each of the territories (ACT, NT) and one in each of the other Australian states. The club also has reciprocity rights with clubs in New Zealand, Vanuatu, England and France. Toowoomba has a proud history of producing great sportsmen and women with golf strongly represented. One of the club’s earliest champions, Ernest Albert Gill, won the Australian amateur championship in 1906 and the Queensland amateur (1905-’06). His son, Burnage (Budge), was also a household name in Queensland amateur circles. Other notables include rugby league legend Duncan Thompson, who also represented Queensland in tennis, Paul Costello (Wallaby) Greg “Fat Cat” Richie (cricket), Anthony “Billy” Bunter (motor-cross), golfers Richard Backwell, Alison Munt and Chris Webster and former Governor of Queensland Sir Walter Campbell. All were and some remain associated with the Toowoomba Golf Club – Middle Ridge. In recent years, Mother Nature wreaked havoc on the region. In January 2011, a freak flood event of biblical proportion devastated parts of the city and in early 2012 another storm caused devastation. “The course handled the storms, but nothing prepared us for the heatwave event of 2014,” Owen said. “This, coupled with an untimely failure of the irrigation system, had a devastating effect on many of the prized bent grass greens. “But they are recovering well under the watch of club superintendent Tony Jonas and his team of dedicated course staff.” The club’s 150-seat restaurant “Ridges” is open seven days for table service luncheons and five evenings (TuesdaySaturday from 6:00 pm) for dinner each week. The clubhouse bar and deck overlooks the picturesque fairways, which are bordered by 100-year-old gums and camphor laurel trees that surround the 18th green. Green fees are reasonable and membership enquires are always welcomed. The club’s website (www.toowoombagolfclub.com) offers a wide range of information. Download a membership application or call the club on (07) 4635-1219. City Golf Club is located five minutes from the city centre. Boasting an impressive 18-hole championship course, City Golf Club has magnificent clubhouse facilities incorporating bars, restaurant, Café 19, lounge, gaming room, function rooms, pro shop, administration area and locker rooms. Patrons can rest in absolute clubhouse comfort and watch from behind ceiling-to-floor windows as golfers negotiate the challenging 406m (index 1) par-4 18th. It’s a great finishing hole and one where many championships have been won and lost.
Visitors green fees are $30 (18 holes) and $22 for nine holes. Later this month, City Golf Club will introduce Big Hole Golf, a game played to an eight-inch cup. This should be loads of fun for traditional golfers and newcomers to the game. The club recently turned back the clock to another era when golf operations manager Andrew Webb and committee member Col Muller entertained guests using hickory shaft clubs and persimmon woods. City Golf Club has a 4.5-star City Golf Club Motel, which overlooks the golf course and is the perfect venue to stayand-play.
GOLF and wine: The Darling Downs has a long history
of golf. There, you’ll discover quirky layouts, eccentric hazards at golf courses like Borneo Barracks, Clifton, Pittsworth, Crows Nest and others. Some of the best day trips include Crows Nest via Highfields, Cabarlah and Hampton or go south to Warwick, Allora, Killarney and Queen Mary Falls. If you have a bit more time, head further south to the Granite Belt to check out Queensland’s most-awarded wine region. The warm sun, brilliant splashes of colour, the silverygreen grass, the clean air are all invigorating. The golf can be whatever you make it, the costs shockingly low and where surprises meet you at every turn. So there you are – no more excuses to bypass Toowoomba and the Darling Downs.
empire theatre:
With a little help from its friends, including Oscar winner and former Australian of the year Geoffrey Rush, the iconic Empire Theatre in Toowoomba has just undergone a $5.5m refurbishment. Prominent businessman Clive Armitage was the major donor and Rush, who grew up in the Garden City, too, was a generous benefactor. Even the local community rallied support and raised a total of $1.7m.
TURN BACK THE CLOCK: City Golf Club golf operations manager Andrew Webb (left) and committee member Col Muller show off some of the club’s hickory shaft collection.
WHAT TO SEE Cobb & Co Museum, which has an outstanding collection of horse-drawn vehicles; tour of Black Forest Cuckoo Clock Centre; go to Picnic Point; the Japanese Gardens, Scented Gardens and the Jondaryan Woolsheds.
CHALLENGING: A view of the picturesque second hole at Toowoomba Golf Club – Middle Ridge.
The Empire Theatre first opened in 1911 as a silent movie house, but the original theatre was ravaged by fire in 1933. Even then, the local community rallied and the theatre was restored within nine months. Today the theatre is a beautiful example of art deco design. The arrival of television and more modern cinema complexes in 1971 forced it to close and the theatre lay dormant until June 28, 1997 when it reopened as Toowoomba’s premier performing arts complex. Since then, the Empire Theatre has thrived and is well known for its musical theatre productions producing high selling seasons of The Phantom of the Opera, Hairspray, Cats, The Wizards of Oz and Beauty and the Beast. Some of the upcoming shows include the Queensland Ballet’s Cinderella, Missy Higgins, The Bellamy Brothers, The John Butler Trio, The Australian Bee Gees, Marina Prior, Suzi Quatro and more. If you can’t make one of the shows, the theatre hosts whistle-stop tours on Tuesdays and Thursday at 10am and the Empire Explorer Tour for groups of 15 or more by appointment. For more information, call 1300 655 299 or go to www.empiretheatre.com.au •
THINGS TO DO Golf at Toowoomba GC at Middle Ridge and City GC; see a show at the $5.5m revamped Empire Theatre; have a meal at a country pub; see the Carnival of Flowers; sample provider to palate gourmet food and wine culture; the Village Green Highfields Chocolate & Café and other arts and crafts shops. If you can’t get to the Carnival of Flowers there are other opportunities. In summer, every Sunday it’s Summer Tunes in various parks as well as the Have a Go Festival at the Cobb & Co Museum. In the lead-up to Christmas, there’s the Toowoomba Christmas Wonderland, Boxing Day Races, New Year’s Eve Fireworks and the Granite Belt Blues. There are more than 150 public parks and gardens in Toowoomba. In a city ornamented with two challenging golf courses and loads of well-known cultural experiences, it’s easy to map an itinerary. To the west, you’ll find rolling plains home to small rural townships and warm B&Bs. Go south into the country that was the setting for Steele Rudd’s stories and enjoy the atmosphere in rustic historic pubs. In the north-west, the Bunya Mountains rise dramatically against the sky and offer spectacular vistas, walking trails and abundant wildlife.
WHERE TO EAT The Angel Café – considered the “best place in Toowoomba for lunch and dinner”. During the Carnival of Flowers, the Angel Café is hosting the signature Mayor’s Dinner starring produce from Southern Queensland Country.
WINERY Preston Peak Winery. The 2008 Reserve Shiraz was a top-five Shiraz of Australia and New Zealand and its 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Carmenere – five-star and gold medal in the World Cabernet Challenge.
WHERE TO STAY Stay-and-play – City Golf Club Motel (07) 4636 9999 or email info@ citygolfmotel.com.au
September 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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California’s
Napa Valley Fine wine, great golf and soothing spas Richard Fellner
T
ucked away in the rolling hills of Northern California, about an hour north of San Francisco, the Napa Valley wine region beckons to those looking for an escape to pure tranquility. Featuring world-class golf courses, topnotch spas, and over 300 wineries, Napa Valley boasts over 4.7 million ‘person trips’ a year (i.e. one person staying for one night), making it the second most popular tourist destination in California (second only to Disneyland, believe it or not!). Regions in the Napa valley include Calistoga, St. Helena, Rutherford, Yountville and Napa – each featuring their own unique blend of charm and attractions. Charles Krug established Napa Valley’s first commercial winery in 1861 in St. Helena, and the area is now home to such world-class wineries as Beringer, Grgich Hills, Domaine Chandon, Sterling Vineyards, Rutherford Hill, and the Robert Mondavi Winery (most with tours, cellar doors and/or tasting facilities available).
The golf in Napa is among the most beautiful in the world. My favourite is the Silverado Resort – host of the PGA Tour’s season-opening Frys.com Open -- featuring two 18-hole championship courses designed by Robert Trent Jones. Surrounded by vineyards, rolling hills, and lush flora, the courses are picturesque and challenging, featuring a multitude of ponds, lakes, creeks, ball-grabbing trees, and plenty of bunkers and other natural hazards. For those not into golf (what??!!!), visitors to Napa Valley can enjoy a variety of gourmet restaurants, historic hot springs, day spas & resorts, antique shops, art galleries, and warm and friendly inns and B&B’s (my pick: the exquisite Auberge Du Soleil, in Rutherford). For a real out-of-theordinary treat, hop into a relaxing (albeit curious-feeling) mud bath at the Golden Haven Spa. Or, for a cleaner alternative, take a ride on the famous Napa Valley wine train, where you are treated to a fine meal, a fine drop, and some spectacular scenery.
fly direct to AustrAliA’s No.1 Public Access Golf course
bArNbouGle duNes
Silverado Resort No trip to the area would be complete without a visit to the historic V. Sattui winery – a family-owned winery and gourmet deli established in St Helena in 1885. Grab a couple of their awardwinning reds, a few chunks of their gourmet cheese, and have a relaxing picnic surrounded by two and a half acres of shaded picnic grounds. With so much to see and do, Napa Valley is certainly a must-visit destination for your next trip to the states. Photos courtesy Silverado Resort
Resources: www.napavalley.com www.calistoga.com www.yountville.com Attractions: www.vsattui.com www.goldenhaven.com/ www.winetrain.com/ Lodging & Golf: www.silveradoresort.com www.aubergedusoleil.com www.solagecalistoga.com/ •
• • • •
Fly direct from Melbourne in just 45 minutes Small group size - max 10 people 18 holes Barnbougle Dunes / 20 holes Lost Farm From $895pp twin share – includes flights, accommodation, course fees, buggy and bag hire & ground transfers • Visit our website for scheduled departure dates, or, if you have a group of 4 or more players – contact us to arrange a custom departure date that suits
Free call 1800 033 160 | airadventure.com.au 16
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2014
Cruising to a great
Golf & Gourmet experience T
he Murray River Golf Courses have always had an attraction to golfers Australia wide, with very good reason. The courses are great and affordable, the attractions such as wineries, cuisine, access and the river all add to the experience of golfing along the Murray.
houseboat. Not your normal run-of-the mill houseboat but one with 6 ensuite cabins fitted with air conditioning, flat screen televisions and night screens. The vessels also feature a 10-person spa, al fresco dining area and BBQs on the upper deck, great lounge area forward on the lower deck and storage for golf clubs.
great waterways that were essential to the settlement of Australia.
Innovative tour operator Golf & Gourmet has added a further benefit to golfing along the Murray: spend a week cruising along the river on a luxury
The river provides an ever-changing spectacle of wildlife, riverscapes, history, other vessels on the river and just knowing you are travelling on one of the
Golf courses include Comealla, Mildura and Riverside, explore the historic town of Wentworth and enjoy a cruise along the
Mooring alongside a golf course with just a 9-iron to the pro shop, or an overnight moored along the riverbank sharing dinner and a glass of wine watching the sun set with just nature as the backdrop.
Darling River capped off by a last night dinner in Mildura makes the Murray River Magic a special golf tour which departs from and returns to Mildura.
Golf & Gourmet 12 Budgeree Street, Tea Gardens NSW 2324 0414 799 722 www.golfgourmet.com.au fred@goflgourmet.com.au
Enjoy three great icons of Australia – sport, boating and friendship along the Mighty Murray River.
MurrayRiRivvererMagi Magicc Murray EN SUITE CABINS ✤ GREAT GOLF ✤ SCENIC CRUISING
6 DAYS 2 $1tw4in 2 share) (pp
Golfers ✤ $1422 pp twin share Non Golfers ✤ $1192 pp twin share
Ask us about departures for 2015
www.golfgourmet.com.au or call Fred 0414 799 722
September 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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Pilar Golf Course, with the first Par-6 in South America
has hosted the Argentine Open 21 times, and has the 1967 British Open champion and BA’s own Roberto De Vicenzo, as an honorary member. Designed by the Scottish professional Mr Mungo Park, the course has an English woodland type feel, where a differing array of grand high trees border thin fairways on nearly every hole. The course is very flat, and the deep rough punishes those that don’t drive straight. Often finding my ball 3 metres off the fairway meant no chance in reaching the green in regulation. Putting surfaces are quite slow and can be forgiving, while the water hazard next to the clubhouse doesn’t really come into play if you’re smart. Especially quaint is the pedestrian path running through the course where local workers often stop and watch you play your shot. Overall it’s a course that
Golf in
Argentina Chris Canty
B
uenos Aires is a city that has never struggled to attract visitors. With its classic European architecture, a blind devotion to all things football and an easy blend of tango houses and steak restaurants, the “Paris of South America” is an ideal starting point for those new to the continent. But while the city continues to win
plaudits from global travel media, its status as a great golfing destination, with world-class golf courses dotted around the city, is often overlooked. Though when countryman Angel Cabrera put on the green jacket at the 2009 Masters, Argentinean golf found itself in the spotlight. Here are a few of the country’s great courses.
San Andrés Golf Course San Andrés (Saint Andrews) was founded in 1892 and is the oldest golf club in Argentina. Its present location, just 30 minutes from downtown BA, was founded in 1907 and over the years has reached such prominence that the town around the club has adopted the same name. A train station was also especially built for golfers to enable easy access. It
Riverside Oaks Golf Resort p 02 4560 3200 info@riversideoaks.com.au www.riversideoaks.com.au
N e w “ bUNG o o l” go lf course o p en in g octobe r 20 14 1 ve nu e – 2 ch ampi o n sh i p go l f co urs es
“ S ept e m b e r Gol f Spe c i a l” - 18 holes of golf with GPS equipped golf cart on Gangurru golf course (venue of the 2014 NSW PGA Championship) - 1 dozen Taylor Made Burner Golf Balls and 1 Taylor Made Cap - Just $89 per person - Available Monday - Wednesday until 31st September 2014 *Conditions apply. Can not be used in conjunction with any other offer.
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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2014
Jockey Golf Club
rewards absolute precision off the tee. www.sanandres-golfclub.com.ar
Pilar Golf Course Located 50 minutes away from downtown in the affluent suburb of Pilar sits this 27-hole US-style resort links course. Water features predominantly on many of the holes and with an out of bounds seemingly always nearby, losing balls is easy to do. Electric buggies are compulsory and are fitted with the latest GPS technology giving exact yardage on your onboard display, as well as green undulations and features of each hole. Highlights include a number of huge double greens and the only par-6 in South America on the 553 metre 9th hole (red course). Here you must decide to either lay up before
the water hazard from the tee or take it on. I took it on and got wet, scoring my first ever “double bogey 8”. An enormous clubhouse sits high above the course and features a London Pub style restaurant. www.pilargolf.com.ar
The Jockey Club Renowned as one of the most prestigious golf courses in Argentina, the Jockey Club was designed by Alister MacKenzie in 1928. He also designed Augusta National, Cypress Point, Crystal Downs and Australia’s own Royal Melbourne and is considered one of the world’s greatest course designers. It has also hosted all-time greats of the game including Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer and Bobby Jones. The Argentine Open, one of the oldest national golf championships,
was won by Angel Cabrera here in 2001. Situated in the picturesque suburb of San Isidro, 20 minutes from downtown, the Jockey Club consists of two 18-hole courses, the Colorada (6037 metres) and the Azul (5695 metres). The courses are known for their narrow sculptured fairways, deep rough and high trees, ready to capture any wayward ball. MacKenzie’s signature contoured greens means it is very important to hit the greens in the correct spot to avoid 3 putt or even 4 putt territory. A classic English style clubhouse with tailored waiters is ideal for those 19th hole refreshments. www.jockeyclub.com.ar
Olivos Golf Course Founded in 1926, the Olivos GC consists of 27 holes and is considered one of
the best golf courses in all of South America. The course, which co-hosted the Eisenhower cup (amateur world championships) in 2010, is located 30 minutes from downtown, and has a distinctly English feel, with thin protected fairways and challenging large greens. On some holes it feels as if you have to drive through an eye of a needle just to miss the overhanging branches of the trees. A signature of the course is its frequent doglegs, meaning you will often have to leave the driver in the bag on some holes and play smart using irons off the tee. Add the many bunkers, occasional water hazards (a scenic lake comes into play on the 15th and 16th) and an out of bounds that is too close for comfort on some holes, you’ll encounter a challenging day’s play. www.olivosgolf.cc
September 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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Canada -
The Wild Wild West Tracey-Lea Tiley
I
’ve been on safari in parts of Africa and it goes without saying that animal sightings in nature’s wilderness always impress. But on the recent 2014 Canadian Rockies Golf trip, travellers got a wildlife safari that was completely unexpected and unforgettable. Picture playing Nicklaus North in the beautiful village of Whistler, one of the 2010 Winter Games host venues and a picturesque chocolate-box kind of town. Well, this winter wonderland is also home to a community of bears in the summer.
Territorial mother bears with their infants! So now picture a group of 30 Australians bowling along, playing their round when mother bear and precious offspring stumble out of the thick bush making their way towards the golfers. Maternal instincts kicked in, mother bear stood tall and with a mighty, intimidating roar which we interpreted as “Back off”, she made her position crystal clear. A couple of holes later, the two bears gaily played in and out of the thicket following our golfers. Keeping a wary eye on them, our group decided to put some distance between themselves and the
bears, only to now get front row seats as mother bear climbed into the golf cart. Imagine putting while keeping one eye on the bears – those shakes over three-footers just made their way onto the Richter scale. But more wildlife surprises kept on coming. Fast forward a day and the group were on the ferry travelling to Vancouver Island and came across Orca whales frolicking alongside the ferry, and playful sea lions guiding us into port. All this on top of soaring bald eagles, topping off a spectacular array of birdlife; reindeer and moose with their imposing antlers standing to attention. Canada’s wild
frontiers will hold a special place for all on this golf tour. Beyond an ark full of animals, Canada plays a generous host to visitors and the town of Calgary brings a kaleidoscope of people from all walks of life for the legendary Calgary Stampede - with over 100 years of stampeding Calgary knows how to put on a party. The streets are festooned with colour and pageantry of daily parades, whilst the grounds of the Stampede are filled with cowboys and gals boot scootin’, racing chuckwagons and whooping it up at the rodeo. The Stampede at night is equally entertaining,
Traditional Golf Package
Championship Golf Package
2 x Nights Accommodation 1 x Round of Golf at Nelson Bay From: Twin Share - $200 per person Quad Share - $150 per person
2 x Nights Accommodation 1 x Round of Golf at Nelson Bay 1 x Round of Golf at Pacific Dunes From: Twin Share - $310 per person Quad Share - $265 per person
Packages are subject to availability at time of booking and exclude all long weekends, public holidays and Xmas school holidays.
THE LANDMARK NELSON BAY Reservations: (02) 4984 4633 | Freecall: 1800 200 755 | Group Consultant: (02) 4984 8963 | Fax: (02) 4984 4677 Email: res@landmarknelsonbay.com.au | Groups Email: groups@landmarknelsonbay.com.au 20
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2014
a nightly spectacular not to be missed. A huge stage production and colourful fireworks will have you toe tappin’ and mouth agape! Put simply, the Stampede is just about having fun the way it used to be done. Over in Victoria, green thumbs at the ready, the group visited the enchanting Butchart Gardens. The now famous gardens came from humble beginnings when a neglected quarry caught the eye of the wife’s owner. She planned to make the wasteland into a thing of beauty and it’s fair to say that she achieved her wish with a serene Japanese garden, an Italian
garden and a magnificent rose garden. With over a million plants of 900 varieties, The Butchart Gardens have continued to amaze for over 100 years and it has kept its family roots firmly planted with the Butcharts still in control of this floral work of art. Staying on tour at the majestic Fairmont hotels, the iconic Banff Springs castle is a highlight as is a round on the course. Kelowna in the Okanagan Valley boasts a whole host of temptations and the live culinary exposé and dinner at Mission Hills was eagerly anticipated by the foodies and wine buffs.
Vancouver, meanwhile, was not to be outdone and treated the group to more glorious weather, scenery worthy of a Michelangelo, superb golf at Olympic View and Westwood Plateau. At Grouse Mountain we take a gondola to explore the summit, but the journey up the mountain takes in expansive views of Vancouver and the mountains beyond. Wow! At the top of the mountain there are a number of activities that give you a cultural snapshot of the heart of Canada and if you’re wearing a flannel shirt you’d fit in well with an entertaining lumberjack
show, bear sanctuary, birds in motion show and even a wind farm! It was also the last stop and a memorable dinner with the finest cuisine, regional wines, hearty laughs and below the twinkling lights of Vancouver were a fitting send off for a wonderful golfing adventure. Go Golfing host an annual tour to Canada. Don’t miss out on early bird pricing with golfer entry to the 2015 tour “The Rockies, Best of the Wild West” from US$7,600 per person before 28 November 2014. More information can be found at www.gogolfing.net.au •
September 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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Walk in the footsteps of
after all transfers in luxury coaches. This tour runs with the option of directly transferring to Scotland to join the British Open tour.
golfing history
T
urnberry, Carnoustie, Royal Troon, St Andrews and the British Open. Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill, Pinehurst No 2, Augusta National and the US Masters or Ballybunion, Portmarnock and the K Club in Ireland. These are all golf clubs oozing with history and tradition; and are experiences to tick off any keen golfer’s bucket list. Access to these esteemed courses is now possible with itravel’s unique
and specialised tours to golf’s dream destinations. British Open Tour 2015 The 2015 British Open package includes six games of golf at some of Scotland’s most iconic venues coupled with admission to the British Open at the home of golf, St Andrews. 10 nights luxury accommodation with daily breakfasts, PGA Professional lessons, competitions and prizes, traditional
US Masters Green Jacket Tour 2015
Scottish whisky tastings, dinners and Edinburg City Tour await this unique Scottish experience. 2015 Ireland Tour Seven nights luxury accommodation with daily breakfasts await with five rounds at some of Ireland’s most famous links including Ballybunion, Portmarnock and the K Club. Tune your game prior to each round with itravel’s accompanying PGA Professional. Relax as they look
itravel’s flagship US Masters Green Jacket tour not only takes in the wonder of Augusta National but also the opportunity to play at the icons of US golf, Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill and Pinehurst Number 2, venue of the most recent US Open. The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the US Masters taking in the Wednesday practice session and Par-3 tournament as well as Day 2 and all the drama of the final round. Guests stay in Augusta’s finest hotel, just five minutes from the course and offering free transfers to the Masters with wind-down time each afternoon around an open fire pit, enjoying afternoon canapes. Fourteen days of luxury accommodation includes the beautiful boutique Casa Palmero on the 2nd fairway of the famed Pebble Beach Golf Course to the landmark old world charm of the Carolina Hotel at Pinehurst. Dinners, competitions and prizes as well as tips from their travelling PGA Professional provide all the extras to make this an experience of a lifetime. Las Vegas extensions are also available. Stacey Arthur has over 20 years of experience in the travel industry with a passion for sport and guaranteed personal attention as your licenced travel agent. Packages can be tailored to suit your travel and golfing dreams. More: stacey@itravel-au.com, Ph: 02 4285 0711, Mobile 0402 327606. •
Hyatt Regency Hua Hin Amateur Golf Week 11 - 18 October 2014 in Hua Hin, Thailand
Save on your travel insurance 10%
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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2014
www.thailandgolftours.com.au PACKAGE INCLUDES
• Airfares and departure taxes • 7 nights accommodation in Hua Hin at Hyatt Regency • Daily breakfast and 2 dinners with free flow soft drinks and beer • 4 rounds of golf with caddie & cart • Airport transfers Golf course transfers • Fully guided with English speaking tournament director • Goody bag with exclusive tournament souvenirs • Event scoring and winner’s prizes • All taxes and compulsory service charges
Package A: Accommodations at 5 star Hyatt Regency Guest Room Price per golfer, twin sharing = $2,995 Price per golfer, single room = $3,495 Package B: Accommodations at 5 star Hyatt Regency Regency Club Room Price per golfer, twin sharing = $3,395 Price per golfer, single room = $4,295
Information and Reservations Email: mark@thailandgolftours.com.au | Phone: 0419 264 800
bedroom villa, one round of golf and buggy hire. And for families wanting to spread out, enjoy all the extra space a two bedroom villa offers and receive two rounds of golf and buggy hire from $297* per night (minimum two night stay). Each tee and green offers stunning views of the Hunter Valley’s famous vineyards and surrounding Brokenback mountain range, while the 19th hole (otherwise known as Bodega Restaurant & Bar) presents the perfect place to enjoy a cold drink and mouth-watering meal after an action-packed day on the green.
Swing into a Father’s Day golfing getaway at
S
truggling to find the perfect Father’s Day gift for the dad who has it all? If socks, outdoor appliances and cologne just aren’t making the cut, then call off the search. Popular Hunter Valley resort Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks Hotels & Resorts is coming to the rescue of gift-givers Australia wide, providing the ultimate Father’s Day ‘stay and play’ experience for dads.
Ranked among Australia’s top resort courses, Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks Hotels & Resorts offers a scenic 6,487-metre, par 72, 18-hole championship golf course – which has recently undergone significant upgrades to its course infrastructure and is set to receive a new club car fleet complete with GPS systems in the coming months – paired with premier apartment and
villa accommodation and deluxe leisure facilities in one of Australia’s most picturesque backdrops. For an experiential Father’s Day gift he’ll remember forever, Cypress Lakes Resort by Oaks Hotels & Resorts’ Father’s day ‘stay and play’ packages are the perfect option, starting from $193* per night (minimum two night stay), including accommodation in a spacious one
For the ladies, the neighbouring Golden Door Spa – Elysia promises a tranquil and indulgent sanctuary while the men swing into golf. The resort is also in close proximity to a number of popular and boutique wineries and breweries for guests wanting to explore the Hunter Valley’s iconic wine country. Approximately a two-hour drive from Sydney, the 100-hectare property consists of 126 luxury one, two, three and four bedroom villas, featuring kitchen and laundry facilities, separate lounge and dining areas, modern conveniences and private balconies – some with views over the manicured golf course. It also features a range of onsite leisure facilities, including three swimming pools (one heated), tennis courts, fully equipped gymnasium, sauna and spa – delivering on its promise as a quintessential Father’s Day getaway destination. For further information and bookings visit www.oakshotelsresorts.com •
September 2014 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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