Inside Golf Travel Sept 2016 by Inside Golf

Issue 35 // SEPT 2016 www.insidegolf.com.au

Great golf along the magnificent Mornington Peninsula Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s golfing playground

PLUS+

Captivating courses in Canberra and the Southern Highlands SPeCial deal fOr readerS at terraCe dOwnS reSOrt fOr auSSie gOlferS September Special Package for four $660: Includes a round of golf with carts, one night accommodation in a villa and breakfast for four ($165per person) October Coring Special Package for four $580: Includes a round of golf with carts, accommodation in a villa and breakfast for four ($145per person)

PHONE 03 318 6943 || info@terracedowns.co.nz || www.terracedowns.co.nz

CAPE WICKHAM, BARNBOUGLE & OCEAN DUNES FLY DIRECT BY PRIVATE AIRCRAFT Play 3 of the World’s Top 40 Courses

Prepare to take off on a golfin g experien ce above all others Select your golfing adventure…

2 DAYS / 2 ROUNDS – Barnbougle or King Is (Cape Wickham & Ocean Dunes) 3 DAYS / 3 ROUNDS – Barnbougle & Cape Wickham 4 DAYS / 4 ROUNDS – Barnbougle, Cape Wickham & Ocean Dunes Or if you have a group of 8 or more customise your own itinerary

Includes: 9 Private charter flights onboard our immaculate twin-turbine aircraft 9 On-course accommodation 9 Course fees and more If you have a group of 4 or more contact us to set your preferred departure date. For less than 4 please get in touch for available options. “I would like to thank you for an outstanding experience from start to finish, from initial contact with yourself to flying with Jack down to Barnbougle, everybody commented that it was first class.” SC, Vic

While playing Australia’s best courses, use the best gear. We recommend Callaway.

Free call 24 hours / 7 days 1800 033 160

golf@airadventure.com.au

golf.airadventure.com.au

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 Contributor: Bill Colhoun E: ed@insidegolf.com.au Accounts: Sheridan Murphy M: 0404 075 823 E: accounts@insidegolf.com.au Advert Technical Enquiries: Stacey Fortescue M: 0420 319 893 E: stacey@insidegolf.com.au National Sales: Sam Arthur P: 1300 465 300 F: (07) 5535 4922 M: 0410 575 303 E: sam@insidegolf.com.au NSW Sales: Megan Symington M: 0419 575 000 E: megan@insidegolf.com.au QLD Sales: David Ross M: 0439 612 458 E: david.ross@insidegolf.com.au VIC/TAS/SA Sales: Jon Perrett M: 0402 852 637 E: jon@insidegolf.com.au Australia/New Zealand Sales: Lisa Coleman M: 0406 031 344 E: lisa@insidegolf.com.au COVER PHOTO: Flinders Golf Club

‘Plenty’ of NZ golf fun in the EVES 5 Course Classic

t was Captain James Cook who nearly 250 years ago named the region “Bay of Plenty” and today the sunshine haven still lives up to its name.

Tauranga is the hub for this semi tropical paradise which also boasts the Kiwifruit capital of the world and one of New Zealand’s finest surf beaches in Mount Maunganui. Within 20 minutes of downtown Tauranga are located five championship courses and each year approximately 400 keen golfers gather for the five-day EVES 5 Course Classic. Golfers are placed into four groups of approximately 100 and play each of the five host courses. Each course has its own special characteristics. Mount Maunganui has long been regarded one of the best member courses in New Zealand and is always beautifully presented. Across the road, Omanu can rightly claim to have superb greens and, being very flat, provides a pleasant walk. Tauranga is the region’s oldest club and offers a contrasting landscape with several hilly challenges. The windsor couch fairways are a pleasure to play all year round.

Omokoroa is right on the harbour’s edge and affected by the tidal flows. The views and birdlife are spectacular whilst Te Puke is surrounded by Kiwifruit orchards and an excellent testing layout. The EVES 5 Course Classic is a stableford tournament with a massive amount of repeat players and the camaraderie and

conviviality generated makes for lifelong friendships to be formed. EVES is the Bay of Plenty’s biggest real estate brand and have supported this event for over 20 years. For more information: visit www.5courseclassic.co.nz, or email chris@bopgolf.co.nz. Facebook: EVES 5courseclassic

• 3 DAYS AT THE MASTERS TOURNAMENT (EXTRA DAYS AVAILABLE) • 13 NIGHTS LUXURY ACCOMMODATION INCLUDING LUXURY HOTEL PEBBLE BEACH & HOME2 SUITES AUGUSTA, WITH DAILY HOT BREAKFASTS AND TRANSFERS

2017

• WELCOME DINNER • DEDICATED TOUR GUIDE • GUARANTEED SMALL GROUPS • 3 FINE DINING EXPERIENCES • PRIVATE TRANSFERS • AIRFARES ON APPLICATION

Golf clinic And lessons PROVIDED BY PGA PROFESSIONAL AfricA 2017 on sAle now As 2016 sold out

stacey@itravelwoonona.com.au

2018 British open with europeAn river cruise with Golf At eAch port on sAle now

FULL ITINERARY: www.exclusiveworldtours.com.au

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 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

Scotland or Ireland? the temperamental wind and rain can embellish the challenge of hitting a small ball along ancient dunes covered with grass until it falls into a 4.25-inch hole. It would be difficult to find a more fitting golf destination than St Andrews. The name is synonymous to golfing royalty and you’ll find some of Scotland’s finest links courses on its doorstep. With spectacular surroundings of beaches and medieval architecture, it is a lively little town thriving with tourists and students going to the historic University of St Andrews and more pubs per square-feet than anywhere else in the UK.

Why choose? S

cotland and Ireland are both bucket list golfing destinations. There is much discourse as to which is best and when it comes to choosing one over the other, well, that’s open to debate. What we know for sure is the depth of great golf in both countries is such that you could make double-digit trips to the British Isles, playing different courses each time, without ever hitting a dud.

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2016

In golfing terms, there isn’t one Ireland or one Scotland. They are both essentially three apiece. Ireland has the Northwest, the Southwest, and Northeast; Scotland has the West (Turnberry), East with St Andrews and the Highlands (Royal Dornoch). Unless you have unlimited time and money, when it comes to golf courses you’ll be faced with a plethora of choice and then challenging decisions. There is no denying Scotland takes the

crown when it comes to pedigree. It is the holy land of golf. The Scots developed the game, created the rules, built the courses and nurtured the first architects and champions. What makes it so unique is the land on which it is played. You don’t go to Scotland to play parkland or heathland courses. You go to Scotland to play on a ‘true’ Scottish links course. You go there to play one of the courses where history was created and where

Kingsbarns, eight miles away from St Andrews, is relatively young and more man-made than your average Scottish links. Yet it delivers a surreal, tiered amphitheater setting overlooking the sea. This modern layout is visually spectacular and tremendously fun to play. On a clear afternoon, you can often see across the North Sea to the small town of Carnoustie with its fearsome championship course that has tested the game’s best players for decades. And then there is Turnberry, on the

Atlantic, with the fantastic Ailsa course and the majestic Royal Troon. And Loch Lomond with the Carricks golf course. Now, what about Ireland? When it comes to links golf, it does pack a punch. Ireland’s southwest is renowned for its string of links courses which stretch along the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Fashioned along windswept beaches and between high dunes, it takes you back to the game’s origins. There is nothing artificial here; just golf on foot, dictated by the natural landscape, the elements and the luck of the bounce. There’s the Alister MacKenzie classic Lahinch, to the north, and Ballybunion, Tralee, and the idyllic Waterville, on the Ring of Kerry to the south. And then there is the immaculate and awe-inspiring Old Head Golf Club, peering down on the ocean from 300 foot cliffs, on a peninsula which resembles a diamond earring in shape.

Waterville and Tralee boast some of the most spectacular scenery in Ireland. Bays, peninsulas, mountains and ocean add to these inspiring golf experiences, but playing them is even better. Waterville has the most elegant and rhythmic dune systems. It is a course which builds and builds, with the closing three holes streaking above the ocean in a dramatic par-4, par-3, par-5 finish. Tralee was designed by Arnold Palmer, featuring a majestic back-9 which rises and falls to create many of the most impressive holes in the country. Little needs to be said about Ballybunion, a links which rose to prominence thanks to Tom Watson’s visit in the 1980s. It is another course of muscular dunes and an outstanding green setting. Old Head is an unbelievable cliff-top golf experience. It doesn’t get more thrilling than this, with nine of its holes literally clinging to the cliffs’ edge.

From the iconic links to the breathtaking landscapes, not to mention the hospitality and the craic, not many golf destinations in the world can compete with Killarney and its accompanying golfing greats. Tour operator GoGolfing have hosted several tours to both Scotland and Ireland. For lovers of golf and life, these tours are guaranteed to hit your sweet spot. Start your journey in Ireland with a 13-day golf tour that will see you play six rounds of magnificent links golf. The fully-escorted tour will see you stay at Dromoland Castle, partake in a sumptuous medieval feast, soak in the Irish culture and history, take in the breathtaking rural landscape sprinkled with quaint villages and have the best time of your life playing golf. Continue onto Scotland to walk in the

shoes of Open Champions like Arnold Palmer and Tom Watson. It is a 13-day bucket list trip with seven rounds of golf that will take you to St Andrews, the home of golf, Loch Lomond and Turnberry, and to Dundonald Links where you will experience the atmosphere of the final day at the 2017 Scottish Open. Sure, you can choose to just go to Scotland or to Ireland, but why not do both? Go to www.gogolfing.net.au for more information.

September 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

Tee off on an ‘EPIC’ Southern Tip of Africa golf tour

Ray’s main goal is to provide golfing opportunities for visitors from outside South Africa, introducing them to the awesome courses and attractions offered here.

Your adventure begins with a personal and informed orientation meeting to provide you with an accurate update on the way of life in South Africa and things to know as a tourist in our beautiful nation. Ray will personally collect and deliver you home after your day’s golf and will also act as your driver/tour guide on the various outings and visits to the numerous places of interest. If numbers allow, he will also join you for the round of golf.

“I have a contagious love for people, my country, golf and life itself, so this is not just a business for me, but a passion, as I provide personalized service to my guests,” he says

“Your wish is my command and it is my mission to provide an unforgettable, funfilled experience right up to the moment I drop you safely back at the airport for your flight home,” he says.

Service and safety are of utmost importance to Ray, so from the moment your plane touches down in magnificent Cape Town, he will be there waiting to personally escort you to your friendly and comfortable B&B accommodation.

In addition to the awesome golf courses you will play, other tourism experiences Ray offers in the Western Cape and Garden Route included in the $285 pp per day package are: amazing coastal and game drives, visits to popular

s the Founder and OwnerOperator of EPIC Golf and Tours, Ray Haakonsen is excited to be hosting golfers and partners for spectacular golfing and tourism experiences in the beautiful Western Cape Province of South Africa.

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2016

tourist attractions and interaction with truly hospitable South Africans. This can include a selection of an unforgettable cableway experience to the top of the iconic Table Mountain, tours to Cape of Good Hope, Kirstenbosch Gardens (the biggest garden in Africa), Penguin Colony in Simonstown, magnificent winelands with tasting of world class wines, magical V&A Waterfront plus many attractions to select from. Accommodations are specially chosen for their charm, hospitality, comfort, location and reasonable rates. Each establishment is carefully chosen to give you a restful and enjoyable ‘winding down time’ between the numerous activities you will be engaged in. Packages range from 10 to 15 days (10-day special at $285 per day until April 2017, airfares not included) and Ray provides all transport, accommodation, golf bookings and entry fees as well as

attractions according to individual needs. Ray caters from 3 to 24 guests, with the packages at very competitive rates within the industry. Three-day Garden route and/ or Sun city add-ons available on request. “With a life-long passion for sport, nature, people and my country, as well as a desire to do all with excellence, I aim to give our guests an experience that would indeed be EPIC. I will be your personal guide and accompany you as much as you need me to throughout your stay here in the Western Cape area. The ‘Buzzword’ we use for EPIC Golf and tours of ‘Where spectacular is the norm’, is not an empty promise and we believe your first visit won’t be your last.” More information, EPIC Golf and tours. Phone: +27 836581917. Web: www.epicgolfandtours.com, or email epicgolfandtours@gmail.com. •

The ultimate Italian golfing experience

njoy the ultimate golfing experience and explore the Lakes of Northern Italy, the Veneto and Tuscany, via a spectacular tour with Carolinasusi Italia Tours and well-known golf professional Richard Harris.

Starting with four nights in Varese in the Lombardy region, your first golf game is at Le Robinie Golf Club, a challenging course designed by Jack Nicklaus that can be played at any level. The holes are designed like a Roman amphitheatre so that you can clearly see the bunkers and water hazards. The next day is somewhat slower as you set off for Lake Como for a relaxing stroll around the gardens of Villa Melzi and a wander amongst Bellagio’s network of fascinating cobbled alleyways. A private boat and a leisurely cruise across Lake Maggiore to the Borromeo Islands is the perfect start to your day. With a personal guide, your group will explore Isola Madre and Isola Bella, and will have lunch overlooking the lake on Isola dei Pescatori. Moving to the Franciacorta area, wellknown for its excellent sparkling wines, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting followed by a leisurely lunch at a typical local restaurant. Then there is a short drive to Provaglio d’Iseo, just south of Lake Iseo, where you will spend the next two nights.

It’s time to get back to golfing, today playing the beautiful undulating course of Franciacorta Golf Club. The course is surrounded by the famous Franciacorta vineyards. Lunch at the clubhouse is followed by a leisurely cruise on Lake Iseo to Monte Isola before returning to your hotel.

Next, you’ll move to Bassano del Grappa in the Veneto region. On the way, you’ll stop to explore Verona, home to Romeo and Juliet, showcasing the pink hued medieval buildings and Roman ruins. Then it’s on to Bassano del Grappa where you’ll spend the next three nights. You’ll spend a day in Venice where your local guide will show you through the maze of alleyways and lesser-known streets explaining the culture and history. Enjoy a visit to Basilica San Marco with its remarkable gold mosaics. The Grand Canal offers a snapshot of the busy lifestyle of the Venetians as they go about their daily business. South of Bassano, near Vicenza is the Colli Berici Course designed by Marco Croze. This highly technical course requires precision and strategy. It is described as “18 holes, 18 challenges and 18 sensations.” Take the challenge! Leaving the Veneto region you’ll head through Emilia Romagna towards Tuscany,

CAPE TOWN – SOUTH AFRICA

Montecatini Golf Club, Clubhouse stopping in Bologna. Steeped in culinary tradition, you’ll be in Bologna for lunch and for a short tour of this famous city. Then it’s on to Montecatini Terme, known for the healing properties of its thermal waters. The waters were enjoyed by Julius Caesar in Roman times and many golfers after a day on the course. The Montecatini Golf Course is an older par-72 course also designed by Marco Croze. Set amongst olive groves it is surrounded by fantastic views. After a leisurely lunch and perhaps a glass or two of Tuscan wine, you can spend the remainder of the day relaxing in Montecatini. Sit back and enjoy the journey through the Tuscan Hills to the Chianti wine region. Exploring the local villages and undulating hills of this beautiful region, a day in the Chianti region would not be complete without a wine tasting and a typical Tuscan lunch in a local restaurant and of course you’ll do both. Versilia Golf Course, close to Pietrasanta, is another test of your skills. This course, also designed by Marco Croze, is set between the mountains and the sea. The many water hazards can

have an unexpected influence on the game. No holiday in Tuscany would be complete without a visit to Florence. Your local guide will show you around the iconic monuments and central piazzas also taking in some places that most tourists don’t get to see. After the tour, find yourself a wellearned lunch then enjoy some free time to shop, look at galleries and museums or maybe just take in the magnificence of this Renaissance town. Leaving Montecatini Terme you head south enjoying a relaxed day with a leisurely drive through Tuscany to Porto Ercole and Porto San Stefano where you’ll spend the final night of the tour. Being the last night, your group will celebrate with a grand awards night and dinner. Prices start at $9,850 per person twin share, $1,255 Single Supplement, $7,550 Non-Golfing Partner. For more information: Carolinasusi Italia Tours. Phone Carrol, 0401 150 615 or Sue, 0410 692 003. Visit www.carolinasusi.com.au, or email info@carolinasusi.com.au •

10-day SPECIaL @ $285 PP PEr day

Excludes Air fares, lunches and dinners.

Voted best City in the world 2016 by Telegraph Travel Awards

GOLF PACKAGE SPECIAL EPIC Table Mountain Cable car ride and awesome views

5 rounds of golf Including carts on top quality courses

Game drive and eco walk through unique fynbos

V&A Waterfront Most visited tourist spot in SA

Comfortable B&B including friendly service and views

4 days sightseeing Wine/beer tasting, & other attractions

“Where Spectacular is the norm” Accompanied by personal owner-operator tour & golf guide. Includes airport transfers, daily transportation to golf courses plus sightseeing excursions & B&B accommodations.

Contact: Ray Haakonsen Office: +2721 7820440 or cell: +27836581917 or email: epicgolfandtours@gmail.com

3-day add-on to Sun City including golf & game drive available on request. Price excludes Air fares, lunches and dinners. Dates available go to EPIC website at http://epicgolfandtours.com/special-10-day-package/ September 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

The Mornington Peninsula:

AUSTRALIA’S GOLFING PLAYGROUND

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.

Moonah Links Resort

Moonah Links Resort Arguably 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 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. 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 Moonah Links Golf Academy – which has played host to Golf Australia and the Australian Institute of Sport elite player development programs. 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. Since opening in late 2013 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. More information: www.peppers.com.au/moonah. 1300 362 386

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2016

The Flinders Golf Club

…a true coastal golf experience St Andrews Beach Golf Course

St Andrews Beach Golf Course Treat yourself to an unforgettable golfing experience at St Andrews Beach Golf Course, named Victoria’s best public access course, and one of the premier ‘pay to play’ courses in Australia. Designed by internationally-renowned architect Tom Doak (who was also responsible for the renowned Barnbougle Dunes and Cape Kidnappers golf courses), the course offers a brilliant mixture of short and long holes that always pose a different challenge regardless of how many times you play. When Doak himself suggests if he “could place any one of his designs on his doorstep, St Andrews Beach might be his first choice” golfers must all take notice.

Incredible natural drainage ensures pristine playing surfaces all year round and a huge fleet of motorised carts are available for hire. There is a licensed pro shop with heated al fresco deck available for refreshments, while there are also affordable green fees, with Senior, Group and Afternoon golf discounts available! Competitions are open to all golfers, with official handicap weekends and other peak days, plus monthly Doak Blue Tee Challenge on the second Saturday of each month (February – December). On-site, self-contained accommodation available. More information: 209 Sandy Rd, Fingal. Ph: (03) 5988 6000. www.standrewsbeachgolf.com.au

MORNINGTON PENINSULA, VICTORIA Green Fees | Weekend $55 Midweek $39 • Classic Links style 18 hole course • A challenging Par 69, 5260 metres - OPEN 7 DAYS • Exceptional Corporate Golf & Social Group Packages available • Full equipment hire available • Non members and Guests Welcome

Flinders Golf Club

Flinders Golf Club THE lovely and picturesque Flinders Golf Club, is 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. 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 offline you can forget about par, as you’ll be contending with deep bunkers, tall trees and any number of ball-grabbing shrubs or hazards. 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. 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 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.

www.facebook.com/flindersgolfclub/ @theflindersgolfclub

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. More information: www. flindersgolfclub.com.au, (03) 5989 0312. September 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

BOOK online and receive a further $5 discount or call the Proshop on 03 5989 0312

P: 03 5989 0583 E: admin@flindersgolfclub.com.au 1 Bass St, Flinders VIC 3929 www.flindersgolfclub.com.au September 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

The Mornington Peninsula Golf Trail The Mornington Peninsula Golf Trail should be on every golfer’s “Bucket List”. Worldfamous 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 are in the Top 100 Australian courses! The Mornington Peninsula Golf Trail provides a unique golfing experience of playing fourteen different courses that are all within one-hour 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. Play seven different courses on the Mornington Peninsula Golf Trail and be rewarded with a free Golf Trail polo shirt and cap, valued at $60. Play the remaining seven courses and receive a free personalised framed photograph (valued at $200) of the courses you played on the Mornington Peninsula Golf Trail. For more information on this unique golfing experience, contact Mornington Peninsula Golf Tourism on info@ golfmorningtonpeninsula.com.au or 0439 396 617 to have the Golf Trail map posted to you or pick up the Golf Trail at any golf course or Visitors Information Centre on the Mornington Peninsula.

Rosebud Country Club

Bay Views Golf Course

Rosebud Country Club

Bay Views Golf Course

With 36 holes of Championship golf, a light-filled clubhouse with Café & Bistro open from 7.00 a.m. daily, Bowls facility and on-site 4 Star accommodation, Rosebud Country Club is the golfing jewel on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula.

Come and be surprised at the Bay Views Golf Course! The captivating panoramic views of Port Phillip Bay, Bass Strait and the Mornington Peninsula are matched by a beautifully manicured golf course that offers excellent playing conditions all year round. Wonderful tree-lined couch fairways and consistently firm and smooth greens ensure golfers are treated to a memorable visit on every occasion for all the right reasons.

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 offers a wide range of footwear, equipment and apparel and you can also warm up before your game on the Driving Range. Teaching professional Matt Bolton operates Bolton Performance Golf, catering for group lessons, individual lessons, and also a very successful junior program. Golfers that are staying on the Peninsula during the summer months should consider the option of a Lifestyle Membership, an innovative points style membership offering flexibility and member benefits.

Since coming under the Golf Services Management banner, Bay Views has been rebranded (formerly known Carrington or Rosebud Park) and is forging its own identity as fun and modern facility that caters for a wide range of golfers 7 days a week. A large fleet of motorised carts are available for hire and the recently renovated clubhouse is now licensed to sell alcohol for golfers and visitors alike wanting to savour the most amazing views of the Mornington Peninsula over a cold drink.

Located an easy one-hour drive from Melbourne, just 100m off the Mornington Peninsula Freeway with on-site accommodation, it is the perfect destination for the avid golfer or social group excursion.

Excellent value for money green fees (18 holes just $39), plus even bigger savings available with season pass and multi visit passes available for regular visitors plus competition golf is offered every day! Come and be surprised and one of the region’s best kept secrets.

More information: www.rosebudcountryclub.com.au, Clubhouse (03) 5950 0800, Golf Shop (03) 5950 0888.

More information: Elizabeth Drive, Rosebud. Ph: (03) 5981 2833. www.bayviewsgolf.com.au

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

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

www.greatgolfgetaways.com.au 10

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2016

moonah links

ThE homE oF aUsTRalian GolF

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no better time to make Moonah Links your home club. Join before the 31st of December 2016 and receive:

15 months membership for the price of 12!* A huge saving of up to $700* Become either a Bronze or Silver Medallion Member and make our world class facilities your own. Hurry! Only a limited number of memberships available. For further enquiries please call our Golf Administrator, Kate McLean on (03) 5988 2047. *For full terms and conditions please visit our website www.moonahlinks.com.au

Moonah Links Resort Peter Thomson Drive, Fingal 3939 | T: (03) 5988 2047 | W: www.moonahlinks.com.au September 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

Fairways Resort

Fairways Resort 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. With on-site golf and clubhouse Café, Bar & Bistro, Fairways Resort is an ideal place for a Mornington Peninsula social golf escape. Located a short drive away from many of the region’s other top visitor attractions; 15 local golf courses; Peninsula Hot Springs with its indulgent mineral baths, as well as Point Nepean National Park with its magnificent walks and ocean views. In-house guests are also entitled to favourable green fees at Rosebud Country Club.

With 39 generously-sized guest rooms, all with king beds, ensuite bathrooms, private courtyards, LCD television and inverter climate control systems. Fairways Resort is perfect for both intimate getaways and large groups – with a variety of rooms including 2 bedroom, king and twin suites, while superior rooms include the Executive and Spa Suites. More information: www.fairwaysresort.com.au 1300 363 349

Great Golf Getaways Great Golf Getaways specialises in customised tour packages for all types of golf travel including group tours for club members, corporate events, social club trips and weekend getaways. They offer an

St. AndrewS BeAch

Simply a great golf course

Great Golf Getaways extensive range of stay and play packages to all the premier golf destinations around Australia suitable for groups of all sizes. According to Lee Midson at Great Golf Getaways, the Mornington Peninsula is one of their top destinations for domestic golf group travel. The extensive variety of courses on the peninsula attracts golfers from all over Australia, with many repeat clients planning return trips each year to experience a different selection of courses. Great Golf Getaways is also based on the Mornington Peninsula and offers extensive local knowledge and experience in handling group tours to this region. Their golf travel services cover all aspects including: planning your tour itinerary, selection of courses and accommodation to suit your preferences and budget, booking flights, coordinating ground transportation (coach, car and bus rental)

and arranging the perfect dinner venues too. If you are also planning a social competition while on tour or a corporate event, Great Golf Getaways will coordinate your player draws, on course competitions, tour merchandise such as logoed golf shirts, caps, balls and tees, corporate signage, trophies and event prizes. So take advantage of a specialist golf travel planner, who can assist you in creating a great value package and an exciting tour itinerary that will ensure your next tour will be a memorable experience. For further information: Great Golf Getaways, National Travel Desk: 1300 124 220, info@greatgolfgetaways.com.au, www.greatgolfgetaways.com.au

BAy ViewS

Spectacular views great golf course

Come and be surprised www.standrewsbeachgolf.com.au (03) 5988 5366 12

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2016

Official handicaps from $129

www.bayviewsgolf.com.au (03) 5981 2833

MORNINGTON PENINSULA

Seventh Annual Golf Classic 3 - 6 OctOber 2016 PORTSEA

ST AnDREWS bEAch

MOOnAh LinkS - LEgEnDS

SORREnTO

Register NOW! Experience Tournament Play on these Exceptional Mornington Peninsula Courses Graded Championship for Men and Women This prestigious individual stableford Tournament showcases Australia’s #1 golf destination, the Mornington Peninsula Play 3 of Australia’s Top 12 Public Access courses and Sorrento, one of Australia’s most exclusive Clubs! The great value entry fee of only $655 includes: ◗ ◗ ◗ ◗ ◗

Welcome Dinner Carts at all courses Presentation Dinner at The National Golf Club Souvenir Polo Optional golf (additional costs)

◗ ◗ ◗ ◗ ◗

4 days of golf Daily lunches Daily and overall prizes Morning or afternoon fields Partner’s ticket available (additional costs)

Discounted Accommodation offers available.

This is going to be a sell-out Tournament! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to play these unique courses! For more details, go to www.golfmorningtonpeninsula.com.au info@golfmorningtonpeninsula.com.au Pamela McDermott, Marketing Manager on 0439 396 617

PlAy BuCkET liST COuRSES!

Proudly Supported by September 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

Canberra and thE Southern Highlands We explore some of our favourite country golfing gems in and around NSW and the ACT A B C D E F

Mount Broughton Golf and Country Club

Highlands Golf Club Moss Vale Golf Club Mt Broughton Golf & Country Club Goulburn Golf Club Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club Fairbairn Golf Course

Mount Broughton Golf and Country Club has long been considered the benchmark for quality championship golf in the Southern Highlands. Since it opened in 1994, Mt Broughton’s picturesque and challenging par-72, 6000m+ 126-slope layout – designed by two of Australia’s greatest golfers in Frank Phillips (the club’s Patron) and Bill Dunk – has attracted a steady stream of Sydney golfers seeking the special Southern Highlands sophisticated golf experience. Recently, the club has added another dimension to its appeal with the recent addition of its Italian menu in its unique castle-inspired clubhouse. In what seems a perfect upmarket services setting, Southern Highland Wines, the 20ha award-winning Sutton Forest vineyards, located just a tee shot away, is now providing a comprehensive array of fine foods and wines to Mt Broughton’s members and visitors.

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Now the golfers’ on-course enjoyment can be complemented by the offcourse Italian-based food options offered by Southern Highland Wines, an international gold medal winner. And there has been another common-

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2016

Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club sense innovation to add to Mt Broughton’s appeal to golfers – especially the longer handicappers. The muchdiscussed growing-in of the rough across the front of tees, introduced to Mt Broughton a few years ago (making it a challenge for some just to reach the fairway) is virtually no more. Inside Golf columnist, Larry Canning, part of the PGA pro team at the club, says the immaculate course is much more

playable for all standards of golfers and this has been further improved with there now being four tee spots on most holes. Group rates apply to bookings of more than 12 players and there are other value playing offers. For more information: Mt Broughton Golf & Country Club, Kater Road, Sutton Forest NSW 2577. (02) 4868 3200, www.mtbroughton.com.au or email proshop@mtbroughton.com.au.

GUNGAHLIN Lakes Golf Club in Canberra is a course that should be included on any golf trip to the Southern Highlands and the Australian Capital Territory.

The blue course of 6119m, par-72 (ACR 73) championship layout has a slope rating of 136 and the women’s red course is 5348m par-72 (AWCR 74) with a slope of 137.

The youngest course in Canberra – opening only 20 years ago – Gungahlin Lakes, as its name suggests, has water courses throughout its par-72 6000m+ layout.

A 10-15 minute drive from the City,

CANBERRA SPRING BLISS at Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club

Southern Highlands

The course features many holes with water carries across to fairways and to greens. There are four major lake watercrossings and 13 holes where water hazards are in play.

E V SA 0%

The Gem of the

Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club

I hour drive South of Sydney Picturesque and challenging Par 70 layout Come and experience Southern Highlands hospitality at its best!

SPRING OFFER: GOLFING EXPERIENCE FOR TWO $60 Great Stay and Play packages available.. contact Pro Scott Martyn (02) 4871 3274 Highlands Golf Club Hume Highway Mittagong | (02) 4871 1995

www.highlandsgolfclub.com.au

Includes 18 holes and cart hire for two people, plus $10 clubhouse credit upon redemption of this voucher. Valid on weekdays during September 2016 only. Excludes corporate golf days. See the Proshop for full terms & conditions Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club – 135 Gundaroo Drive, Nicholls ACT 2913 gungahlinlakes.com | 02 6242 4662

September 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

Moss Vale (Dormie House) the golf club offers a variety of dining options, from The Lakes restaurant, Aroma Pizza or the Ripples Café. The club boasts a near-new $9 million clubhouse and has some great partnerships with nearby accommodation operators, who offer Gungahlin golf guests discounted packages. There’s currently a Spring Social Golfers offer of a Weekday Golf Experience for two people who, for a total of $60 score two green fees (18 holes), one cart hire and a $10 clubhouse dining voucher. For more information: Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club, Cnr Gundaroo & Gungahlin Drives, Nicholls ACT. Phone: (02) 6242 6283, www.gungahlinlakes.com, www.ainsliegroup.com.au.

Moss Vale (Dormie House) Moss Vale golf course is regarded as one of the prettiest and challenging courses in country NSW. While you are only 90 minutes’ drive from the Sydney CBD, you will feel like you’re a world away in the relaxed and peaceful Southern Highlands. The golf club was founded in 1902 and designed in its current location and layout by Carnegie Clark. The 18-Hole Championship Golf Course is a par-71, 5805m (Mens tees), and Par -73, 5300m (women’s tees). A number of twists and turns, creek crossings and deceptive greens, make the course a true test. The creek which runs through the course has to be crossed 12 times during the round. From the clubhouse, the Moss Vale layout appears hilly, but after the opening five holes, it levels out

Goulburn Golf Club

18 holes for 2 - including cart, lunch voucher and drink $49pp Bookings essential

Blackshaw Road, Goulburn NSW 2580 (02) 4821 2454 www.goulburngolfclub.com.au 16

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2016

Goulburn Golf Club and heads into the quiet countryside. Dormie House is an elegant guest house situated right on Moss Vale Golf Course. Established in the early 1930s, Dormie House retains its period charm while providing all the amenities of a quality golf resort. The intimate atmosphere and personal service make Dormie House the perfect retreat for couples and groups. Guests can access golf all year round, rain hail or shine with the newly completed Shotz Indoor Golf and Sports bar. Finetune your game or enjoy a challenge with friends over drinks at the indoor simulators – available nightly until 10pm. Whether you are planning a casual business conference or golfing weekend with friends Dormie House provides a comfortable and welcoming environment. Dormie House has a wide range of

attractive “play and stay” accommodation packages on offer. For more information: (02) 4868 1503, www.mossvalegolfclub.com.au, or email proshop@mossvalegolfclub.com.au. Call Dormie House direct on (02) 4868 1800, or visit www.dormiehouse.com.au.

Goulburn Golf Club A GOLF trip to the Southern Highlands would not be complete without playing the historic Goulburn Golf Club, which has been the teeing off point for four of Australia’s finest golfers. Australian Open winners Bruce Devlin, 1960, Steve Elkington, 1992 and Lou Kelly, 1933, as well as Australian PGA Champion, Brett Ogle,1990, all began their golf at the top quality 5793m par-71

Mt Broughton Golf & Country Club Mt Broughton is more than a game of golf ..it’s an experience!

Enjoy fabulous golf before a gourmet Italian inspired menu from our newly appointed Award Winning partners Southern Highland Wines. Check the website for packages.

Mt Broughton Golf & Country Club | Kater Road, Sutton Forest NSW 2577 (02) 4868 3200 | www.mtbroughton.com.au

Highlands Golf Club. Photo by Bruce White Goulburn course. Devlin, Elkington and Ogle all graduated to be multiple winners on the U.S. PGA Tour. Opened on August 18, 1898 Goulburn Golf Club is one of the oldest in NSW and has built on a reputation of being one of Australia’s best inland courses over its 118 years history. Goulburn’s five Par-3s, nine Par-4s and four Par-5s gives players a great opportunity to attack and score low, however, tree-lined fairways and water hazards—combined with sometimes unpredictable winds—make it a true risk and reward course. The Mulwaree River meanders around the course and you’ll frequently encounter local cockatoos, rosellas, kangaroos and turtles. The War Memorial that sits atop Rocky Hill provides some amazing backdrops to several holes—never a bad round when you are

surrounded by magnificent scenery. Goulburn GC continues to attract the state’s leading professionals eager to test themselves in its annual $22,000 Soldiers PGA pro-am each April. Visiting golfers can be assured of a warm welcome from Andrew Grove the club’s PGA Professional and they will enjoy an inspiring round on an immaculate layout, renowned for its excellent greens. For more information: Phone (02) 4821 2454, www.goulburngolfclub.com.au.

Highlands Golf Club Just over an hour from Sydney Airport sits the beautiful Highlands Golf Club; built on the side of Mount Alexander

MoSS Vale Golf club iS a

Golfer’s Paradise

Hill with majestic views overlooking the Southern Highlands towards Wollongong. The par-70 course is a challenging test for all golfers, but is also friendly enough to enjoy your round with many birdie opportunities available. The club has a rich and diverse history; the original 9-hole course opened in 1926. Carnegie Clark designed the course and was also the Club’s first professional. Early on, the greens were protected from wandering cattle by barbed wire. A breakaway group of members formed a new club and 9-hole course in 1933. With course upkeep organised on a voluntary basis, the idea of two clubs by 1940 was forgotten. The expansion to 18 holes was completed in 1974. The course’s signature hole is their short but tricky par-3 18th. Measuring just over 100m, it doesn’t care what level of player

you are; it can either dish out a roundsaving birdie, or a card-destroying “big number” (while also emptying your bag of all your golf balls!) After your round you can enjoy a cold refreshment on the balcony which overlooks the 18th hole, or tuck in to some of the best food in the Southern Highlands. Highlands Golf Club turns 90 in October this year. There will be special events throughout the month culminating in a Black Tie Event on Saturday, 22 October. Great stay and play packages available. For more information: Highlands Golf Club, Hume Highway, Mittagong NSW 2575. Phone: (02) 4871 1995, or visit www.highlandsgolfclub.com.au. Alternately, contact golf professional Scott Martyn on 02 4871 3274 or email info@asapgolf.com.au.

2 Day Golf School at MoSS Vale Golf club Receive expert tuition in all facets of the game, while staying on course at the beautiful Dormie House.

SUMMER Golf PaCkaGE $250 per night for 2 people includes daily: Breakfast, Accommodation, $50 credit towards dinner, 18 holes*

Package Includes: • 3 Nights accommodation • 3 Dinners • Professional Tuition

• 3 Buffet Breakfasts • Morning tea & Lunch on two days

*Offer based on 2 persons per room in a standard room. Minimum 2 night stay, mid-week only. Valid 1st December 2016 to 28th February 2017.

Dates: 21st-24th September and 26th-29th October.

For bookings at these exclusive rates quote Inside Golf

Cost: $699 p/p twin share, $799 single

Ph: (02) 4868 1800 www.dormiehouse.com.au

Bookings through Dormie House phone: (02) 4868 1800

*Group sizes are limited to 8 people

September 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

Great Golf Getaways Great Golf Getaways provides customised golf tours and packages for all types of golf travel suitable for small and large group tours, social club trips or weekend getaways.

Fairbairn Golf Club

Fairbairn Golf Club It is not very often that you can uncover a secret that even many locals have not yet discovered. With a rural atmosphere, glorious views across the magnificent Brindabella Mountains and the striking Telstra Tower posing as a backdrop for the 9th Green, Fairbairn Golf Course is one of those special places known to only a few. The gently undulating course with bent grass greens; 23 strategically-placed, well maintained bunkers and tree-lined fairways provides a great combination of forgiveness for the occasional golfer and challenge for the more accomplished. The course is a Par-70 (Slope 115) at 5541m. Enjoy the short 7th with a blind tee shot over the hill or test your skill on the three-

tier 12th Green and the 402m Par-4 9th (tip: aim for the Tower). The large undercover beer garden makes this little gem an ideal location for groups to enjoy a round of golf and a friendly BBQ after. Social play available every day. Visitors welcome in all Competitions. Green fees for 18 Holes: $30 weekend & Public Holidays, $22 midweek. 9 Holes: $22 weekend and Public Holidays, $17 midweek. Membership available from $11 per week. For more information: Fairbairn Golf Club, Laverton Avenue, Fairbairn ACT. www.fairbairngolfclub.com.au, email fairbairngc@netspeed.com.au, or phone: (02) 6257 9000.

If you’ve visited many of the major golf destinations around Australia and are looking for a different experience, then Canberra is one spot you should consider for a future golf trip. Whilst not as well-known compared to other interstate destinations, Canberra offers several top local courses all within close proximity of the CBD including Federal Golf Club, Gold Creek, Murrumbidgee, Queanbeyan, Belconnen and Gungahlin Lakes. You won’t be disappointed with the quality of these courses. For interstate visitors, flying to/from Canberra is an easy route with plenty of flight options from all major capital cities. For larger groups, coach transfers can be arranged and also car or bus rental for smaller groups for return airport and golf transfers. You can plan a weekend getaway including 2-nights/3rounds or a longer tour of 5 -7 nights to play a different course each day.

18 HOLE PUBLIC COURSE

Depending on your preferred accommodation style, Great Golf Getaways have an extensive range of options available including apartments, hotels and motels to suit all budgets and all within easy walking distance of a vibrant selection of local restaurants, cafes and bars for dining out. Great Golf Getaways can help you plan an exciting Canberra tour package to suit your preferred travel dates, golf course selection and tee-times, accommodation, transport, flights, and venues for dinner. Your tour package will be carefully planned and customised to suit your specific tour arrangements and group size. The spring/summer season is the perfect time of year for a Canberra golf tour, so it’s a great time to start planning now for your next golf trip. Contact Lee at Great Golf Getaways for further information on their latest range of golf tour packages and special rates for groups. For more information: National Travel Desk: 1300 124 220, info@ greatgolfgetaways.com.au or visit www.greatgolfgetaways.com.au

Overnight packages frOm just $90pp

‘Canberra’s Hidden Golf Treasure’

GREEN FEE PLAYERS, CORPORATE DAYS and SOCIAL CLUBS WELCOME 7 DAYS GREEN FEES FROM $17 Membership from $10 per week Laverton Avenue, Fairbairn ACT Phone: (02) 62579000 • Fax: (02) 62579099 Email: fairbairngc@netspeed.com.au Visit our website: www.fairbairngolfclub.com.au 18

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2016

Book now

www.golfandstay.com.au

Cruise your way to The Open, and British Isles Byron at Byron offers Stay & Play special

ravelrite International have opened bookings for their July 2017 golf tour of the British Isles and The Open golf cruise with PGA Golf Professional Robert Stock. Here is just a taste of what’s on offer for those joining on Robert Stock’s Golf cruise. A highlight of the cruise will be attending the final two days’ play of the 146th Open Championship at the magnificent Royal Birkdale Golf club. Discover some of the British Isles’ most breathtaking golf courses as you cruise from Amsterdam to Guernsey, England, Ireland and Belgium aboard the magnificent Celebrity Silhouette. Enjoy confirmed tee times at six outstanding courses including the spectacular Royal Portrush in Belfast. Royal Portrush is a links golf course with few equals. The views of the towering dunes, chalk cliffs and castle ruins will rest in

the memory for a lifetime. Play at Portmarnock, ranked amongst the top golf courses in the world. An unforgettable Links with a rich history closely aligned to the progression of golf in Ireland. Bernard Darwin said “I know of no greater finish in the world than that of the last five holes at Portmarnock.” Experience the best of golf as PGA Golf Professional Robert Stock hosts you on this golf holiday of a lifetime. Robert has played tournament golf throughout Europe, and currently resides in Melbourne. He was born in the UK and is excited to share his passion of UK golf and hopes you can join him. For more information about Travelrite International’s British Isles & Open Golf Cruise, which runs from 15 - 31 July 2017, call Travelrite International on 1800 033 436 or email heathmont@travelrite.com.au •

Nothing rounds off a beautiful day on the course better than the short stroll to The Byron at Byron Resort & Spa, where your all-suite accommodation, restaurant and day spa await. Nestled within 45 acres of subtropical rainforest and just 200 metres from the Byron Bay Golf Course, Byron at Byron is the perfect choice for travelling golfers. The Byron at Byron is currently offering a special to visiting golfers. For just $912, your Stay and Play package at The Byron at Byron includes Two night’s accommodation in a Superior Suite, Daily breakfast for two in The Restaurant, Green fees for two to play 18 holes at The Byron Bay Golf Course, Cart hire and Premium clubs hire. Offer subject to availability and application. Golf course Tee Times must be booked in advance. For more information: The Byron at Byron Resort & Spa, 77-97 Broken Head Road. Phone 02 6639 2000, Website: www.thebyronatbyron.com.au. Or email reservations@ thebyronatbyron.com.au

ULTIMATE ITALIAN GOLFING EXPERIENCE with CAROLINASUSI ITALIA TOURS and Golf Professional Richard Harris

15 nights in 4 Star Hotels from 15–30 May 2017 $9,850 per person twin share • $1,255 Single Supplement $7,550 Non-Golfing Partner

Book Now. Experience first class golf courses and sightseeing in The Lakes of Northern Italy, Tuscany and The Veneto. INCLUSIONS: Golf Rounds, Carts, Green Fees, Clinics, Stroke Advice, Competitions, Prizes • 4 Star Hotels, All Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 2 Dinners, 2 Wine Tastings • Guides, Sightseeing, Boat Cruises, Entrance Fees • Private Coach & Driver

www.carolinasusi.com.au info@carolinasusi.com.au Call Carrol 0401 150 615 or Sue 0410 692 003 September 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

TRAVEL NEWS >

Juniors go for Gold in WA J

uniors in WA will strike gold again this year at the 2016 STAR MART - Goldfields Junior Desert Open. The Goldfields Golf Club of Kalgoorlie-Boulder will be staging the event for the fifth time on the 4th & 5th October. The STAR MART-GJDO is a WA state junior ranking event over 36 holes of stroke. The club continues to receive great support from GolfWA, whom have confirmed the attendance of the State Development Squad players, to ensure a high quality field for what is continuing to be one of WA’s largest junior golf tournaments. This year the event kicks off a week of open competition golf for the Goldfields Golf Club, following the Star Mart-GJDO the Club hosts the McDonalds Goldfields Classic, a four-day senior open championship. The event has exclusive access to the course for the two days allowing junior golfers an opportunity to play on the Graham Marsh-designed Kalgoorlie Golf Course, which offers a high standard of playing surface, set in the unique setting of natural bush land and rich red desert sands.

With sponsorship at capacity, the tournament continues to enjoy great support both locally and state-wide which enables a prize pool of six divisions with 24 prizes. The Gross Champion Girl and Boy will each receive a Kalgoorlie Gold Nugget. In addition, each divisional gross winner will also receive a smaller nugget.

Virgin Australia to introduce Wi-Fi on domestic and international flights Guests flying with Virgin Australia will soon be connected and better entertained than ever before, with the airline to introduce in-flight Wi-Fi on its Domestic and International fleet. From mid-2017, Virgin Australia plans to begin fitting out its Boeing 737-800, Boeing 777 and Airbus A330 aircraft with equipment that enables in-flight Wi-Fi. Virgin Australia Group Chief Executive John Borghetti made the announcement at the launch of the airline’s new Long Haul International Business Class cabin in Los Angeles.

The MyGolf section of the competition is again a 2016 MyGolf Tour event, with players awarded points to the season long order of merit. The MyGolf event will be run in conjunction with the STAR MART-GJDO each day to allow younger players and siblings to participate. This event has a total of 18 prizes over the two days of competition and there is a division for all skill levels. Each entrant will receive an event backpack containing a number of gifts. The club is intent on encouraging players to come and play with every participant taking something home. To complement the formal prizes, there will be 28 novelty prizes over the two days. In July the club took 10 junior representatives to play a week of open competition in Perth and to promote the STAR MART – Goldfields Junior Desert Open. The buzz around the tournaments the group attended was very positive, with many players and parents indicating their intention to make the trip to Kalgoorlie in October. The Goldfields Golf Club is looking forward to a successful event again in 2016 and for years to come. For further information contact Mark Baroni, Junior Golf Coordinator on markbaroni@westnet.com.au or visit and “Like” the tournaments facebook page www.facebook.com\GoldfieldsJuniorDesertOpen

Australia’s top courses on offer at Seventh Mornington Peninsula Golf Classic T

he magnificent Mornington Peninsula will once again be on show to golfers as the highly-anticipated Seventh Annual Mornington Peninsula Golf Classic tees off from 2-7 October.

Mr Borghetti said: “In-flight Wi-Fi has the potential to transform air travel as we know it. We are determined to give Virgin Australia customers the best possible combined connectivity and entertainment experience in the air.

The golf extravaganza is regularly recognised as one of the most enjoyable and bestvalue events on the annual amateur golfing calendar, and will see men and women golfers play some of Australia’s top courses in a 72-hole graded individual stableford tournament, while also enjoying a fun and friendly atmosphere as they meet new friends, or catch up with friends made from previous Classics.

“As well as providing access to email and social media, in-flight Wi-Fi will improve the travel experience by providing guests with up-to-date information about connecting flights and their travel plans.

This year’s Classic will rotate among some of the best courses that the Mornington Peninsula has to offer: Portsea Golf Club, St Andrews Beach, Moonah Links (Legends), and Sorrento Golf Club.

“We believe our in-flight Wi-Fi service will be popular with business travellers but also have widespread appeal for all our guests by enabling them to stay in touch and access the internet through their journey.

The entry fee of $655 incorporates golf on four days, shared carts, lunches on all four days, daily and overall prizes are included as are the Welcome Function at Rosebud Country Club and a three-course gourmet buffet at the Presentation Dinner at The National Golf Club. You will also receive a souvenir polo shirt.

“Our team is building what we think will be one of the world’s leading connectivity and entertainment networks, and we will work with strategic technology partners to offer our guests a truly personalised experience.” More details about Virgin Australia’s in-flight Wi-Fi, including technology partners and business model, will be released by the end of 2016. 20

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2016

This is your absolute last chance to enter! Refer the tournament to your family and friends to win prizes. See website for more details. Phone: 0439 396 617 Website: www.golfmorningtonpeninsula.com.au Email: info@golfmorningtonpeninsula.com.au

Unique Golf Courses of the World:

Pau Golf Club, France

Continental Europe’s Oldest Golf Club (1856)

By “Scottish Bob” Davies

ho would have thought that the Napoleonic war fought between England and France— with the Duke of Wellington on one side and Napoleon Bonaparte on the other— would be the catalyst for one of Europe’s oldest golf courses?

The development of golf in this area of France can be attributed to the Napoleonic war and the battle of Orthez where in February of 1814 some of the Duke of Wellington’s army were

quartered in Billere and the countryside of Pau. It is known that among the many Scottish soldiers who were there, two of the Scottish officers were very fond of their game of golf and were never parted from their golf clubs for very long. When time and the war permitted they would take the time to practise their favourite sport. During their travels, the two officers were so impressed by the local countryside near Pau, they decided that with the banks of the mountain

stream and the Pyrenees Mountains as a backdrop it would make an ideal place for a golf course. Especially as the surrounding land was free from mud even during the winter months, making it the ideal place for the golf course. Those two Scottish officers played a big part in establishing golf in the area and so after the war and in the early 1800’s some of those same Scots came back to Pau as tourists hoping to find memories of their earlier visits, but this time they came with family and friends and, of course, their golf clubs.

It was not too long before the local French people of Pau could see some Scotsmen in their kilts hitting a wee white ball with some strange-shaped pieces of wood. Little by little an entire English colony became established in Pau, and in doing so they left their mark and customs like Horse Riding, Hunting, Mountaineering, and of course, Golf and so they created a need for a golf course. And so in the year of 1856 the Pau Golf Club was founded, becoming the oldest golf club in France but also in Continental Europe.

STAY PLAY in Byron Bay

www.thailandgolftours.com.au

Nestled within 45 acres of subtropical rainforest and just 200 metres from the Byron Bay Golf Course, Byron at Byron is the perfect choice for travelling golfers.

912

twin share

Two nights accommodation in a Superior Suite Daily breakfast for two in The Restaurant Green fees for two to play 18 holes at the Byron Bay Golf Course Hire of a cart and premium clubs

To book: call 02 6639 2105 or email reservations@thebyronatbyron.com.au www.thebyronatbyron.com.au

September 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

RESORT OF THE MONTH >

Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort

arrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort is recognised as the pick of resorts along the Murray River, Australia’s number one golfing destination. Situated three hours’ drive from Melbourne and an hour from Albury it is the ideal location for your next individual or group golfing experience, wedding and reception, conference, dining experience, short stay accommodation or a long, relaxing holiday.

Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort is Australia’s largest public access golf resort, boasting stunning surrounds alongside the majestic Murray River. It has 45 holes of some of the finest golf in Australia, winning rave reviews for its inspired design of the club’s three courses, their immaculate condition and the extraordinary range of play for novices, casual and championship players. The Murray Course is right beside its namesake river, and meanders through towering river gums and sandy river flats. This course favours the straight hitter, as many billabongs and lagoons are eagerly awaiting wayward balls. Its pedigree is impeccable, as it was designed by Peter Thomson and Michael Wolveridge and is ranked in the Top 100. The Murray Course 22

INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | September 2016

also features the only hole in the entire Murray region where the river is in play, left of the 5th fairway. Named for Lake Mulwala, the Lake Course overlooks this beautiful waterway.

You’ll find strategically placed lakes, undulating greens, 56 bunkers and lots to test the keenest player. Precision around the greens is needed to make par. If you’re a novice or are tight for time,

the shorter Executive Course is ideal. Set in beautiful parkland, it’s more lenient for beginners but still provides plenty of challenges for more experienced players. Looking to stay on course? You’re

absolutely spoilt for choice at Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort. There are nine different styles of accommodation, from comfortable cabins to luxurious, well-appointed suites, apartments and villas. All are family friendly, have cooking facilities, private bathrooms and a car parking space. Golf packages can be tailored to your needs, or choose from one of their popular stay and play experiences which can include unlimited golf, fullycooked breakfast, evening meals and accommodation. Looking for more than just golf? The clubhouse is more than just a place to rest, eat, drink and socialise. You can build your non-golf itinerary around the facilities and activities that are on

offer. You have a great choice of leisure activities; relax in the leather reclining state-of-the-art luxury movie theatre, swim in the solar-heated pool, play tennis, workout in the fully equipped gym, pamper yourself with a massage, play barefoot bowls on one of two welltended bowling greens, enjoy a game of croquet, or book a tour of the local Rutherglen wineries tastings some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best fortifieds. Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort is fun for the whole family with a recently added interactive kids play room that offers ball pit, slide and climbing area plus x-box, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s TV, colouring and much more. If you want a quiet stroll after a day on the greens, the banks of the Murray River and the shores of Lake Mulwala beckon you.

Contact Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort today and experience golf on the Murray River, you will see why it has been voted the number one golfing destination in Australia.

FACT FILE Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort Mulwala, NSW 2647 (03) 5744 1911 www.yarragolf.com.au

September 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL

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

Supeunds o rb G n Cours olf much es and moremuch ...

VIETNAM

7 NIGHT

$1580 (pp twin

share)

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

JUST

$985 (pp twin

SOUTH TO NORTH

DEPA T S 07 MAR RC 2017 H

share)

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