Issue 38 // DEC 2016 www.insidegolf.com.au
The Coast with the most:
Great golf along the NSW Mid to Far North Coast PHONE +64 3 318 6943 golf@terracedowns.co.nz www.terracedowns.co.nz
Fly direct to King Island in 35 minutes*
Barnbougle & King Island golf tour specialists.
Play 3 of the World’s Top 40 Courses
*ex Melbourne
Prepare to take off on golfing experience 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
Fly by deluxe twin-turbine private aircraft (faster, higher and safer).
“The general consensus amongst the group is that we doubt there’s a golf experience of equal standing available anywhere else in the world.” W.C., United Kingdom
2 day Barnbougle or King Island golf tours from $880 per person (includes everything except meals and drinks)
Free call 24 hours / 7 days 1800 033 160
golf@airadventure.com.au
golf.airadventure.com.au
TRAVEL NEWS
Flybuys and Velocity join forces 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: Byron Bay Golf Club
T
wo of Australia’s largest and most popular loyalty programs, flybuys and Velocity Frequent Flyer, recently announced an Australian-first partnership that will open up new travel opportunities for shoppers.
Members of flybuys and Virgin Australia’s loyalty program Velocity Frequent Flyer can link their memberships, enabling them to Transfer their flybuys points to Velocity Frequent Flyer Points and Earn Status Credits with Velocity Frequent Flyer when shopping at Coles, Coles Online, Liquorland or First Choice Liquor by presenting their flybuys card. Coles is the first and only Australian retailer to allow its loyalty members to earn airline Status Credits with an Australian frequent flyer program when making grocery and liquor purchases. Velocity Frequent Flyer becomes the first Australian frequent flyer program to allow members to earn Status Credits with a supermarket partner. This gives Velocity members who link their membership to flybuys an opportunity to move through the Velocity status tiers faster to receive eligible benefits like lounge access, priority boarding and extra baggage. The partnership means Velocity members who link their membership to flybuys will be able to boost their Points balances to redeem flights with Virgin Australia and Velocity’s 12 other worldclass partner airlines, simply by shopping at Coles or any of flybuys’ 27 partners and presenting their flybuys card.
General Manager of flybuys Adam Story said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Velocity Frequent Flyer to help our flybuys members fly faster by simply transferring their flybuys points to Velocity Frequent Flyer Points to redeem for a flight. “We’ve made the process very simple – link your memberships on our website and transfer points. If you’re not already a member, it’s free to join both flybuys and Velocity,” Mr Story said. Velocity Frequent Flyer CEO Karl Schuster said: “We are delighted to partner with flybuys to offer the most compelling proposition between an Australian frequent flyer program and a supermarket group. “Millions of Australians do their grocery shopping every day at Coles and this new partnership will make it easier for them to attain their dream holiday with Virgin Australia. This partnership means that millions of Australians can get closer to their next holiday by transferring their points to Velocity,” Mr Schuster said. More: www.flybuys.com.au/velocity
MASTERS TOUR 2017
Go Golfing wins top travel award Gold Coast-based Go Golfing Travel has won the Oceania’s Best Golf Tour Operator award for the third year in a row, as announced during last month’s World Golf Awards ceremony in Portugal. “Our goal is to bring golfers together for the best time of their lives. That’s what drives us and these awards show our clients are giving us the vote of confidence”, said Peter McCarthy, Go Golfing’s Founder and Managing Director. “To have Go Golfing Travel recognized by the World Golf Awards three years in a row is a fitting testament to our commitment to customer service and the outstanding team that puts it into practice. These awards make Go Golfing Australasia’s most awarded golf travel company.” Go Golfing is renowned for Australia’s biggest annual amateur golf tournaments as they attract up to 800 golfers for a week-long celebration of golf and entertainment throughout the Asia Pacific. These include the Ladbrokes World Masters on the Gold Coast, the Wrest Point International Masters in Hobart, Centara World Masters in Thailand and Accor World Masters in Vietnam. Go Golfing also offers hosted golf tours and cruises to iconic locations including Canada, South Africa, Hawaii, Spain & Portugal, Scotland & Ireland, China, Vietnam and Thailand. More: www.gogolfing.net.au
2017 AfRicA bAck by pOpUlAR dEMAnd 2018 bRiTiSh OpEn On SAlE nOw ViETnAM/cAMbOdiA 2017 RiVER cRUiSE wiTh GOlf JApAn GOlf TOUR 2017 wiTh pAUl ShEEhAn
• WELCOME DINNER • DEDICATED TOUR GUIDE • GUARANTEED SMALL GROUPS • 3 FINE DINING EXPERIENCES • PRIVATE TRANSFERS • AIRFARES ON APPLICATION STACEY ARTHUR P: 02 4285 0711 M: 0402 327 606 E: stacey@itravelwoonona.com.au
FULL ITINERARY: www.itravelwoonona.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.
December 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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WIN A TRIP TO KING ISLAND FOR YOU AND 3 MATES! O
ver the past 12 months Inside Golf has written a lot about the amazing new golf courses of King Island. Why? Because the courses are incredible! Cape Wickham, which opened in October 2015, has already been ranked number 24 in the world and number 3 in Australia. Ocean Dunes has not yet been ranked as it only opened on 1 September 2016, however feedback from golfers who have played both courses is that it is
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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2016
very difficult to decide which of the two courses is better. The fact that there is a debate highlights the quality of the two. OnCourse Golf and Air Adventure Golf Tours are now giving you an opportunity to WIN A TRIP TO KING ISLAND FOR YOU AND 3 MATES! The prize includes flights, one night accommodation, 18 holes at both Cape Wickham and Ocean Dunes and all on ground transfers.
While playing two of the world’s great golf courses will no doubt be memorable, an added bonus is that you will be travelling in style on one of Air Adventure’s Deluxe Cessna Conquest aircraft. Air Adventure’s aircraft are twin turbine with a pressurised cabins, meaning that you fly above the clouds and therefore any poor weather leading to a smoother and safer flight. Their aircraft also have full leather interiors
meaning you will be travelling in comfort on the fastest and highest quality aircraft operating in the Australian golf industry. If you are interested in winning the dream golf trip to King Island, purchase any item from On Course golf’s ‘Summer Price Slice’ catalogue and then enter online at www.oncoursegolf.com.au. On Course Golf have 63 participating stores which can be found on their website. Sign up online/in store as an On Course Golf privilege card member and score exclusive bonus products from the catalogue such as Wilson wedges, a hat or a Mizuno umbrella. If you would like to more about King Island Golf, go to golf.airadventure.com.au. Air Adventure will be able to answer all queries and organise everything for you. Good luck and enjoy King Island whether you go as the winner of this competition or go on your own accord. You won’t be disappointed! You will be the envy of those you leave behind! •
Golf and music in the USA
I
nnovative golf tour company Golf & Gourmet has launched the 2017 Golf & Music Tour through the Southern States of the USA, departing Memphis, Tennesee on 27 September and ending at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport on 16 October. The tour includes a wonderful array of great golf at amazing venues such as TPC Southwind, Mirimichi and TPC Louisana. In all, the tour includes 11 rounds of golf including carts.
The music focus of the tour will include Country, Soul, Gospel and Jazz at such famous venues as Graceland—dedicated to the King, Elvis Presley—the Memphis Music Hall of Fame, Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, the B.B King Museum at Indianola, the Juke Joints in Clarksdale for both historic and live Blues Music and The French Quarter in New Orleans, just to name a few. Live music could include Morgan Freeman’s Ground Zero Blues Club, Hal & Mal’s Music Hall
will be returned to the participants at the end of the tour. Dining along the way will also include highlights of the South including The Shed, a winner of the All-American BBQ Championship, Hal & Mal’s, the French Quarter as well as true Texas BBQ brisket, gumbo in New Orleans and many more local experiences. Transport will be provided by using large SUV Vehicles for each four guests. This provides flexibility to visit sites that not everyone may be interested to visit. Shuttles will be provided for all transfers to/from music and entertainment venues in the evening so no one has to drive. The tour will be limited to 16 people and four vehicles so it is imperative that you book early to avoid disappointment. TPC Louisiana
or Underground 119. Plus 6th Street in Austin, Texas. Good four-star hotels such as Holiday Inn and Suites are included throughout the tour, multi-night stays are scheduled at all major stops. Entry fees to music events and admission fees will be operated on a kitty system so travellers can choose which venues they wish to visit. At this time, it is not known which artists will be playing at which venues. Any funds left in the kitty
The cost for the tour is AU$9546.00 per person twin share. This total includes three allocations for variable costs, US$600 for music events; US$250 for fuel and US$500 for local taxes on accommodation which will change between now and the tour departure. Any residual funds from each allocation will be returned to guests if not used. A non-refundable deposit of AU$600 per person is required to secure a place on this tour. More Information: Fred Sparksman, Golf & Gourmet. Tel: 0414 799 722 or email: fred@golfgourmet.com.au
December 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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The coast
with the most
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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O
Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club Chinderah Golf Course Murwillumbah Golf Club Ocean Shores Country Club The Oasis Apartments & Treetop Houses The Byron at Byron Resort & Spa Byron Bay Golf Course Ballina Golf and Sports Club Yamba Golf & Country Club Coffs Harbour Golf Club Bonville International Golf Resort Sawtell Golf Club Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club Port Macquarie Golf Club Kew Country Club
Bonville Golf Resort Bonville Golf Resort is quickly defining itself as the number one destination for golfing groups. Why? It’s a focus on creating a top-to-bottom, unmatched golf experience that has set a new benchmark for stay and play golf in Australia. 2017 marks Bonville’s 25th year and according to General Manager Brad Daymond the course has never been in better condition. That’s a big statement from someone who has taken the entire 25-year journey with the club. Set amongst the flooded gums at the
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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2016
Bonville Golf Resort
Featuring pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and some of the Australia’s most spectacular scenery, the NSW Mid to Far North Coast is one of Australia’s premier locations for sports, festivals, music, dance and more. Of course, it is also home to some tremendous choices for the discerning golf traveller. From Port Macquarie to Tweed Heads, and everywhere in between, we highlight the most popular and unique courses the region has to offer. foot of The Great Dividing Range, Bonville Golf Resort has been voted Australia’s most beautiful mainland golf course by The Golf Course Guide for 15 years running. It offers amazing vistas throughout the par-72 championship layout and as you travel from hole to hole through pockets of rainforest, you quickly discover just how alluring this place really is. Every hole is secluded from the next, the fairways are wide and the greens are fair. That’s something that Steve Tomlin from ‘The Legends Group’ knows all about. He’s been making a pilgrimage to Bonville every year since it opened, along with 50 players that he organises. “It’s so easy to plan a visit,” he says. “Bonville have dedicated staff who are experts at group golf. They make the organisation of our annual tournament completely trouble free. All the staff will go out of their way to ensure the smooth running of the entire stay, from accommodation to presentation dinners, golf, and transfers.”
“Its beauty is astonishing. It’s not like your average resort style course, yet there is still something for all abilities. It’s perfect for golf weekends and golf stays, kind of like a home away from home.” Steve adds. Bonville Golf Resort tailors unique and unforgettable golf packages for each and every group. Centrally located halfway between Sydney and Brisbane with direct flights from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, The Coffs Coast has become one of NSW’s most desirable holiday locations. MORE INFORMATION Bonville Golf Resort North Bonville Road, Bonville NSW 2450 (02) 6653 4002 www.bonvillegolf.com.au info@bonvillegolf.com.au
Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club
Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club Sitting near the beautiful sun-drenched beaches of the Queensland/NSW border is the picturesque Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club. With accommodation in abundance and no shortage of shopping nearby it’s easy to see why this is one of the more idyllic and impressive golf courses in one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. Inside a stunning dedicated nature reserve lie the River Course and the West Course, both 18 hole courses are
on 101 rolling hectares and were ranked in Australia’s top 100 Public Access golf courses in 2015. For any golfer the 36 holes will challenge and test as it weaves from gently undulating to flat, wide fairways guarded by groves of well-established trees, and plenty of bunkers and water hazards to keep golfers’ minds right on their game. Smack-bang in the middle of the River Course is a small rainforest, and you may come face-to-face with a goanna or the many species of bird life, generations of which have happily shared their lush riverside habitat with golfers.
To play a round at Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club is just a fraction of the cost of many Gold Coast courses and is available all year round. The cost-friendly course also offers other great facilities like The Clubhouse which is perfectly situated with views overlooking the Tweed River. Along with great scenery, this fully licensed venue has a cafe, full club facilities, and a well-appointed Pro Shop, stocked to the rafters with everything a golfer needs and more. After a challenging day on the course at Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club is one of Tweed’s most popular and busiest
restaurants, Danny’s famous seafood buffet, ready to aid the heartiest of appetites. So, it’s easy to see why for so many locals and tourists who visit the Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club they consider it one of the best. MORE INFORMATION Coolangatta & Tweed Heads Golf Club Soorley Street, Tweed Heads South (07) 5524 4544 www.cooltweedgolf.com.au nicolej@cooltweedgolf.com.au
WELCOME TO AUSTRALIA’S ONLY ISLAND GOLF COURSE
at Nambucca Heads on the Coffs Coast of NSW. The 18 hole course located on Stuart Island is rated one of the most scenic courses on the North Coast of NSW, a true test of your golfing skills. The Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club venue surrounded by the picture perfect Nambucca River, is the sensational location for wedding receptions, conference venues, and function room facilities. The Island Restaurant at Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club is the ideal venue for family, social, function and corporate gatherings. Plus a fully equipped Pro Shop with sensational prices, lessons, cart & club hire.
Corporate Golf Days & soCial Group bookinGs
NAMBUCCA HEADS
ISLAND GOLF CLUB Stuart Island, Nambucca Heads 2448 GPS 153°0’10”E, 30°38’32”S Enquire (02) 6569 4111 Pro Shop (02) 6568 8172 secretary@namgolf.com • www.namgolf.com December 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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Ballina Golf & Sports Club
Ballina Golf and Sports Club SITUATED on the Far North Coast of NSW, less than an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast is the stunning Ballina Golf Course. Known for its award-winning gardens, which are a visual delight for members and visitors alike, the layout is the “Garden Course” of the Northern Rivers. The popular Ballina destination is an easy-walking, tree-lined course with lush fairways complemented with true and
consistent greens that are a pleasure to putt on. The area is fortunate to experience cooling ocean breezes in summer that definitely enhance your golfing experience. Heavily steeped in tradition, the club proudly celebrated its centenary in 2008. The Ballina Golf Club has hosted many outstanding champions including Greg Norman, Rodger Davis, Wayne Grady and Peter Senior just to name a few. The recently renovated modern and
STAY PLAY
air-conditioned clubhouse provides all the usual conveniences for members and visitors including full bar facilities, Keno, a well-appointed gaming lounge and quality Chinese and contemporary meals in the Asian Green Restaurant. Kiosk facilities are also available. Access to Ballina has never been easier with regular flights for interstate and Sydney travellers. And it’s only a short drive from the Gold Coast and Brisbane. Whether it’s for the day, a weekend or even longer, a visit will not disappoint.
The Ballina Golf and Sports Club provides an immaculate golf course that presents an enjoyable challenge for all levels of players. The course has been a hidden gem for far too long. MORE INFORMATION Ballina Golf and Sports Club (02) 6866-2766 www.ballinagolfclub.com.au admin@ballinagolfclub.com.au
Experience the Difference 27 Hole Championship Golf Course
in Byron Bay
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
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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2016
Exclusive offer! 18 holes with cart $55 twin share One voucher per person, valid until 30 June 2017
P: 6652 3244 E: admin@coffscitygolfcentre.com W: www.coffsharbourgolfclub.com.au A: Earl Street, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450
Murwillumbah Golf Club
Murwillumbah Golf Club Murwillumbah Golf Club is arguably one of the best golf courses in Australia with its spectacular views and elevated greens it is sure to impress any level of golfer who comes to visit. Situated just 30 minutes south of the Gold Coast, Murwillumbah has a fully equipped club house with function rooms and an 18-hole championship course, the perfect venue for your next outing. Just far enough away from the crowds
of the Gold Coast and Brisbane areas, Murwillumbah Golf Club is truly a hidden gem when it comes to golf. The layout is unique with each hole possessing a different challenge with undulating fairways and greens it truly tests your game and makes your day thoroughly enjoyable. To truly take the challenge of Murwillumbah the club host a back marker challenge on the first Friday of each month which attracts a number of visiting golfers and members who love to take on the course at it full capacity. The club
has 25 electric carts to hire along with an additional 20 push carts. The club also has a driving range with undercover hitting bays and teaching professional Graeme Trew always on hand for private or group lesson. Whether you’re a once a year player or an avid golfer, Murwillumbah golf club will satisfy the thirst of anyone who knows the game.
MORE INFORMATION Murwillumbah Golf Club 233 Byangum Rd Murwillumbah NSW 2484 (02) 66 721799 www.murwillumbahgolfclub.com.au
The club also has catering facilities with excellent Australian and Asian style options from the Hot Wok and Grill.
$65 *Conditions apply. Mates Rates not available on public holidays. December 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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Yamba Golf & Country Club
Yamba Golf & Country Club Recently voted Australia’s No 1 tourist town, Yamba is a unique beachside holiday and lifestyle experience suitable for all members of the family. Pristine beaches, lush national parks, beautiful waterways and plenty of leisure activities make Yamba a very special location for holidaymakers and residents. If you enjoy a friendly social
environment and the fun and competition of a great day’s golf, Yamba Golf & Country Club is just the ticket. They are conveniently located just a five-minute walk from the centre of town, and they have all of the latest facilities you’d expect from a modern social and sporting club. From the clubhouse and new back deck, you can enjoy picturesque views of their
championship 18-hole golf course and an abundance of native Australian flora and fauna whilst enjoying a cold beverage or two. Their restaurant – SeaFire Steak and Seafood, is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner, offering a great menu with all of your favourites, and some superb blackboard specials on locally caught seafood.
MORE INFORMATION Stay & Play packages available $250 twin share Yamba Golf & Country Club River St Yamba (02) 6646 2104 www.yambagolf.com.au reception@yambagolf.com.au
PLAY BETTER PLAY BONVILLE www.bonvillegolf.com.au (02) 6653 4002
TAILORED GROUP GOLF PACKAGES LIKE NO OTHER 10
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2016
Kew Country Club Set amidst beautiful native gardens, with a player- friendly 18-hole championship style golf course and driving range, Kew Country Club is a delight for all players. The Club has been undertaking some great continual improvements including seven new tees, removal of trees, extra mounding and nearly $100k of drainage and water management. “From the moment you drive through the entrance, you start to realize the aim of the club’s governing body is to provide a great recreational facility for patrons to enjoy,” says Kew Country Club secretary manager Robert Dwyer. Call in and have a social game of golf with friends, then finish with some refreshments at the bar, a great meal from Fairways Bistro, or simply relax in the air conditioned club house. Kew Country Club also boasts three wellappointed bowling greens, one natural grass and two synthetic, so no matter what the weather conditions are, you can be sure that your bowling will usually be on. Kew Country Club has a well-appointed air conditioned function room that can cater for your next private function, whether for twenty or 200 guests— perfect for weddings, birthday parties or private functions. A fully-stocked bar and a spacious dance floor with verandahs
Kew Country Club
overlooking a beautiful golf course make this an ideal social venue. Located 30 minutes south of Port Macquarie and 40 minutes north of Taree, the clubhouse at Kew Country Club is only
500 metres from the Pacific Highway. If you are visiting the Mid-North Coast and are playing in the Port/Taree/Wauchope area, this course is a hidden treasure not to be missed.
MORE INFORMATION Kew Country Club Pro Shop on (02) 6559 4596 www.kewcountryclub.com.au
Sawtell Golf Club on the Mid north CoaSt of nSw
Discover an elegant club with a warm and friendly atmosphere
18 Holes $35 per person
Experience Golfing Pleasure Saturday December 3rd
www.SawtellGolfClub.com.au 02 6653 1006 manager@sawtellgolf.com.au December 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club
Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club
The birdlife is also a feature as pelicans, sea eagles and osprey soar overhead. In the early-1990s, the golf course expanded to 18 holes and since then it’s gone from strength-to-strength.
LOCATED on the sub-tropical holiday coast, mid-way between Brisbane and Sydney, is the uniquely scenic Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club.
It’s a flat, well-bunkered course with undulating greens but it’s the tightness of the layout that will test golfers of all abilities.
Surrounded by water, golfers will experience an exhilarating round of golf with the chance of seeing passing dolphins.
The challenging 389m par-4 16th hole is
a great hole with out-of-bounds along the entire length of the left side of the fairway and some hazards down the right. If you do mess up on this hole, you can make amends at the 124m par-3 18th – the easiest hole on the course. Locals say if you can play to your handicap at Nambucca Heads Island golf course, you’ll be doing well.
for family, social or other gatherings. Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club has a fully-stocked pro shop that offers some extremely attractive deals. MORE INFORMATION Nambucca Heads Island Golf Club (02) 6569 4111 www.namgolf.com
The Island Restaurant is the ideal venue
The Premier Golf Course On The Tweed
The Chinderah Golf Course is the premier golf course in the Tweed Valley. Hundreds of trees, scrubs and native plants provide a park like atmosphere. With a mixture of challenging Par 3s and 4s. The course provides a keen challenge for the accomplished player, is also ideal for the beginner and social player. Seniors competitions each Monday and Thursday. Visiting and holiday golfers with AGU and LGU are welcome to join with our seniors in the weekly competition. There is a joining fee of $30 with no annual fee. Play and Stay packages are available. And a world class driving range.
Green Fees Phone: ( 02) 6674 0420 Email: info@chinderahgolf.com.au Lot 2 Tweed Coast Road, Chinderah NSW www.chinderahgolf.com.au 12
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2016
18 holes 9 holes
$13.50 $11.50
seniors/students 18/9 Holes $11.00 Juniors
18/9 Holes $6.50
Byron Bay Golf Club
Byron Bay Golf Club As one of Australia‘s most popular tourist destinations, the award-winning Byron Bay Golf Club is helping put Byron Bay in the media spotlight. Situated to the south of town, Byron Bay Golf Club occupies 48 hectares of land within 500m of the beach. With views to the lighthouse this Championship 18-hole, par-72 layout has been transformed in recent years to now sit comfortably in the Top 100 Public Access Course rankings.
With a scratch rating of 74 and a slope of 137 off the Men’s back tees and 75 scratch rating and 133 slope off the Women’s tees it can be a real test of your golfing ability. This year sees the Club celebrate the 10th Annual Schweppes Legends Tour Championship, from 9-11 December and will feature Golfing Legends such as Peter Senior, Rodger Davis and Terry Price. The course will prove to be as challenging as ever for the Legends as well as for members and guests throughout the Summer of 2016-2017.
In past years the course has been named the Legends Tour Pro-Am of the year (2011) and Course Superintendent, Shaun Cross, has been awarded the State and national awards for “Excellence in Golf Course Management” from the Australian Golf Course Superintendents Association. This year sees the Legends event reaching its 10th anniversary and the Club will celebrate its 60th Anniversary in 2017. This Club and course is one to watch out for in developing news and what’s coming up on the golfing scene.
YOUR
BYRON OASIS IS READY & WAITING
MORE INFORMATION Green fees: $45 for 18 holes, $79 per month for direct debit membership Byron Bay Golf Club 62 Broken Head Road Phone: (02) 6685 6470 www.byronbaygolfclub.com.au manager@byronbaygolfclub.com.au
• Minutes away from three great golf courses - Byron, Ballina and Mullumbimby • Relaxing self-contained holiday accommodation • Resort style facilities • Onsite parking
all it needs is you
December 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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In addition, they love seniors at Chinderah. On Mondays and Thursdays, they hold the largest over-50s golf club on the coast. They have a timesheet-arranged competition every week with a yearly Order of Merit event, club championship, monthly medals and weekly comps. Enjoy the golf companionship and friendly course without the huge yearly fees: Just a $30.00 once only joining fee. Golf is available 7 days a week and no bookings are required. You can reserve a motorized cart. Hire clubs are available. Green fees are $13.50 for all day play, $11.00 for seniors and only $6.50 for juniors. If you want to work on your game, professional Ben Cronk has 15 years’ experience as a PGA AAA golf coach, and regularly plays the QLD PGA Tour. Whether it’s more distance, fewer putts or just getting started, Ben is the coach for you.
Chinderah Golf Course
Chinderah Golf Course Chinderah Golf Course is located in the beautiful Tweed Valley, west of Kingscliff and just off the highway where Tweed Coast Road starts. Chinderah has a purpose-built 18-hole
public golf course with manicured greens, tees, fairways and gardens which presents a beautiful and unique golfing experience. Chinderah features a professionally manicured and expertly presented Driving Range with quality Srixon balls. There is a first-class short game and
chipping area, practice green, huge turf area and undercover hitting bays. 75 range balls are just $8.00. Hit some balls then enjoy a quick but challenging round of golf. They have a fully stocked pro-shop with all the essential golfing needs.
So don’t be put off by suffocating rules, collars, knee high socks and outdated bylaws. Visit Chinderah to relax and enjoy your golf.
FOR MORE INFORMATION Chinderah Golf 100 Tweed Coast Road, Chinderah (02) 6674 0420 www.chinderahgolf.com.au
Present this voucher for
2 x players 18 holes social golf with a cart for
Call or email to book a time (Sunday to Friday)
Stay and Play Packages Play 18 holes of golf at Yamba Golf and Country Club Play 18 holes of golf at Maclean Golf Club Two nights accommodation at Yamba Aston Motel Lunch and cart fees included each day
$250 per person Package is based on minimum of 12 people, twin share and is subject to availability
For bookings and enquiries call Yamba Golf and Country Club on 02 6646 2104 or email functions@yambagolf.com.au ~ www.yambagolf.com.au
233 Byangum Rd, Murwillumbah NSW 2484 ph (02) 6672 4200 email: golfshop@murwillumbahgolfclub.com.au
www.murwillumbahgolfclub.com.au 14
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2016
Coffs Harbour Golf Club
coffs Harbour Golf Club Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Coffs Harbour Golf Club’s 27hole championship course is one of the premier country golf courses in Australia. Offering a beautiful natural setting and boasting immaculately manicured fairways and greens, the course has three different layouts for the touring golfer to experience, with each course prepared to the same great standard. Week-in, week-out the course is in great condition due to its fairway watering system and the wonderful climate.
A testament to the amazing condition of the course and the improvements that the club has been making in recent years, the club General Manager Paul McAra recently won the GMA Manager of the Year. Coffs Harbour Golf Club is a peaceful escape from the rush of everyday life, and with direct flights from Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney it offers a great golfing escape for your next group trip. The course is only minutes from the airport and accommodation. And don’t forget the last week of October when the
club hosts its Festival of Golf week with fantastic prizes, festivities and great value for the touring golfer. After your game enjoy a cold beverage or two on the back deck overlooking the 18th and mountain backdrop. The Lakes Bistro offers a great menu with all of your favourites, and some superb blackboard specials that will have you spoiled for choice. With two function spaces, and a dedicated team to look after you; experience the difference at Coffs Harbour Golf Club.
NOTE: Please show this article to receive a special offer of 18holes w/carts, $55 twin share (Can only be used once)
MORE INFORMATION Coffs Harbour Golf Club Earl Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 (02) 6652 3244 www.coffsharbourgolfclub.com.au/ reception@coffsharbourgolfclub.com.au
Ballina Golf & Sports Club Sunday Special
$50
18 holes, shAReD CARt and a Burger *Bookings EssEntial
An Unforgettable Golfing Experience Phone: (02) 6686 2766 | Email: admin@ballinagolfclub.com.au | Website: www.ballinagolfclub.com.au December 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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Ocean Shores Country Club
Ocean Shores Country Club Ocean Shores Country Club golf course was designed in 1972 by world-renowned golf course architects Bruce Devlin and Robert von Hagge. The Championship golf course is set in an area of natural flora, tidal lakes, rivers and mountain ranges as a backdrop. The
course captures the picturesque beauty of northern New South Wales. The lush fairways and pristine greens set against the background of bushland and sparkling lakes make it one of the most spectacular golf courses in Australia. The 18-hole layout comprises six par-3s, six par-4s and six par-5s. This distribution adds to the unique nature of the course.
Over the past few years, course superintendent Shane Heaney has embarked on a grass transition program to return the fairways back to a pure couch surface. There has also been considerable irrigation, bunker and green surrounds improvements. The works have proven to be very successful with the course being in its best condition in a decade.
MORE INFORMATION Ocean Shores Country Club (02) 66 801 008 www.oceanshorescc.com.au
Tour packages start from just $299 for 3 games of golf and 2 nights accommodation
golf tours | byron bay | ballina | ocean shores | gold coast P 0401 211 929 16
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2016
W www.floggolftours.com.au
Flog Golf Tours
Flog Golf Tours Sawtell Golf Club
Sawtell Golf Club Sawtell Golf Club is looking towards a very bright feature. They have started an ambitious program of course works that will see it remain one of the most enjoyable courses to play on the mid North Coast. These works include the installation of the Durabunker System for all their bunkers beginning this month. Sawtell will be only the second golf course in Australia to have the system installed, and the first in New South Wales. This will ensure that their bunkers are striking in appearance, low in maintenance and thoroughly playable in all conditions even after torrential rain. The Club has also begun a program of concrete paths that will eventually see the whole course done tee to green, ensuring carts are allowed in all but
extreme cases and that their impact on the course’s playing surface is minimised. The club is focussed on weatherproofing in the course such that the club’s playability is not compromised by the weather. The Club’s general manager Alvin Kan, states whilst the club’s plans are ambitious, they are on track to achieve them as well keeping the club in strong financial position. Located in Sunny Beachside village of Sawtell, the course is an ideal golf destination midway between Bonville and Coffs Harbour. MORE INFORMATION Sawtell Golf Club (02) 6653 1006 www.SawtellGolfClub.com.au manager@sawtellgolf.com.au
Flog Golf tours have been organising golf and sports tours for over 20 years; and now they want to share the beautiful Far North Coast of NSW with golfers outside of the region. Flog Golf Tours go out of their way to make sure your trip goes smoothly. They can cater for groups of two golfers or even 100 golfers as they have buses available to suit all needs. They even have a motorhome for those looking at organising a self-drive golf holiday and head up or down the beautiful east coast of Australia to play some of the best courses in the country along the way. With the Ballina/Byron airport and Golf Coast airport right on the doorstep they can pick you up and have you at the golf course in no time at all. They can organise everything from golf, accommodation, travel, lunch or dinner and even day trips if you need a break from golf. Whatever you need to make your golf trip a memorable one,
Flog Golf Tours will be there to make it happen. If you need a break from golf Flog Golf Tours can take you to places like the award-winning Harvest Cafe at Newrybar or The Farm Byron Bay for a great meal and a few quiet drinks. You could even do a brewery tour in Byron Bay. They alsohave a couple of escorted yearly tours. One on the June long weekend where they head to the Stradbroke race day in Brisbane then off to the Sunshine Coast for some golf for two days. The other tour is to Melbourne where they go to the races at the Spring Carnival then golf at Barnbougle and King Island. Their motto is: Nothing is a hassle when it comes to golf.
MORE INFORMATION Flog Golf Tours 0401 211929 www.floggolftours.com.au shanejaco@gmail.com
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 December 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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The Byron at Byron Bay Resort & Spa
THE BYRON AT BYRON BAY RESORT & SPA 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.
MORE INFORMATION The Byron at Byron Resort & Spa, 77-97 Broken Head Road. (02) 6639 2000 www.thebyronatbyron.com.au reservations@thebyronatbyron.com.au
Oasis Apartments and Treetop Houses Byron Bay is home to one of Australia’s premier golf clubs – Byron Bay Golf Club – and when you stay at Byron Oasis Apartments and Treetop Houses, you’re also only 30 minutes away from Ballina Sports and Golf in one direction and Mullumbimby Golf Club in the other. All courses offer great playing in beautiful surroundings, with the added attraction of magnificent beaches, countryside and Byron Bay itself with its clubs, restaurants, cafes and bars.
Oasis Apartments and Treetop Houses When you stay at Oasis Apartments and Treetop Houses, you’ll not only be enjoying easy access to all the nearby courses but also the bonus of living with resort facilities such as sauna, outdoor heated spa, tennis court, gym and a beautiful 18m heated swimming pool. Each self-contained, spacious apartment or treetop house has great views from the large balconies plus undercover parking. Peaceful and quiet yet close to the course, the beach, and still only 5 minutes from the heart of Byron’s cafes, restaurants, shops and markets, Oasis is perfectly placed for a golfing holiday that keeps everyone happy. When you book direct and mention Inside Golf, you’ll receive special discounted rates.
FOR MORE INFORMATION Oasis Apartments and Treetop Houses 24 Scott Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481 1800 336 129 www.byronoasis.com.au Stay@byronoasis.com.au
Would you like to see your club included in a future Inside Golf feature? Then have your General Manager or Marketing Manager contact us for details.
CRUISE & PLAY Murray River Echuca
• $35 per person
murrayriverpaddlesteamers.com.au 18
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2016
Pro-Ams & Golf adventures to HawaiiVietnam & Fiji
Q
ueensland born Richard Ellis was once a leading tournament professional. These days Richard is the owner of the very successful New Zealand based golf management, tour and event company Pacific Golf Management, he has over 25 years’ experience running golf tours, international amateur and professional tournaments around the world.
Richard has an impressive 2017 golf holiday and tournament program to Hawaii, Vietnam, Thailand and the Pacific Islands. Perhaps you enjoy the world-class resort courses and magnificent beach front hotels in Hawaii or traveling to Vietnam or Thailand and challenge yourself playing some of the best championship courses in Asia. Maybe closer to home would suit, with a fun pro-am tournament in Fiji or the excitement of playing in the South Pacific’s biggest 4 round pro-am event with over $130,000 professional prize money and amateur prizes. You don’t have to be a great golfer
to join in the fun of these tours and tournaments and there is always plenty of activities for the non-golfing partners, if you enjoy playing fantastic golf courses, staying at top notch resorts and hotels and having a great time, maybe one of following tours will suit you. Go to www. pacificgolf.co.nz for a full list of tours and event information.
Hawaii International Golf Week & Best of Hawaii Golf Tour (August 19th to 30th September) the big Island of Hawaii is a 30-minute flight from Honolulu. There are 7 world-class golf courses within 15 minutes’ drive of the magnificent Hapuna Beach Hotel at Mauna Kea Resort where you will spend 7 nights in an ocean view room. You will love playing five rounds on the best of these amazing courses plus there’s two PGA golf pros on tour to help sharpen your skills (all included in the cost) The 4-round tournament is played in different divisions for women and men, even a scratch event for the guns, great prizes, nightly drinks, cocktail party and
2017
fun tournament dinner to finish. Get in quick for this event. Hawaii is a long way to go for just a week, so for those who wish to spend more time in golfing paradise, you take a short flight back to Honolulu and spend 4 nights at the fantastic Hilton Hawaiian Village set on 22 tropical acres on the best part of Waikiki beach and a round of golf at Ko’Olina, voted best course in Hawaii in 2015. Waikiki is also a shopping paradise with the famous Ala Moana Shopping centre only a few minutes’ walk from the hotel. The Sheraton Golf Classic Fiji (May 22nd to 27th) The South Pacific’s biggest pro-am tournament with over $130,000 in professional prize money and amateur prizes. There are amazing individual and teams prizes for the amateurs. You will have a professional in your group for all four rounds of the tournament played at Denarau Golf & Racquet Club. Five-star accommodation at Sheraton Fiji, opening cocktail party, nightly drinks at the tournament bar,
INTERNATIONAL GOLF WEEK VIETNAM March 19th - March 25th 2017
• • • • • • •
6 night’s luxury 5-star beachfront accommodation at the Pullman Resort Daily buffet breakfas 4 rounds of golf including cart & caddy You will be playing at the Montgomerie Links, Greg Norman’s Da Nang Golf Club, Nick Faldo’s Laguna Lang & Luke Donald’s Ba Na Hills Welcome Cocktail function, drinks & canapes Final night dinner & drinks PGA Professional on tour with daily tips Excellent prizes Player tournament gift pack Airport, arrival & departure transfers and transfers to golf courses All taxes on accommodation and tour inclusions
PLAYERS PP US$1689.00 (NON-PLAYERS US$938.00) TWIN SHARE
INTERNATIONAL PRO-AM & TEAMS TOURNAMENT May 23rd - 27th 2017
5 Nights twin share accommodation at Sheraton Fiji Resort, Denarau Island Return airport / hotel transfers from Nadi International Airport Daily full breakfast 4 rounds of golf in the Pro-Am including carts and range balls daily Daily lunch and on course drinks during tournament play Gala Welcome Cocktail Party Nightly drinks at the tournament bar (during the tournament) Player gift pack valued at $120.00 Over $130,000 in Prize money and Prizes Final night Gala Banquet dinner, drinks and entertainment
PLAYERS PP $1737.00 (NON-PLAYERS $1288.00) TWIN SHARE
Da Nang International Golf Week, Vietnam (March 19 –25) Five-star beachfront accommodation for six nights, 4 world-class golf courses designed by the best in the business, great tournament, golf pro on tour for daily tips. Go To www.pacificgolf.co.nz for full information or email richard@ pacificgolf.co.nz phone +64 21989996.
Special Tour Package • • • •
6 WORLD CLASS GOLF COURSES ON THE BIG ISLAND & OAHU August 19th - 30th 2017
• • • • • • • • • •
7 nights’ accommodation at the five star Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel & Spa, ocean view rooms 4 nights’ accommodation at the five star Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Daily full breakfast, 11 days 6 Rounds of golf including cart on world class course, Mauna Kea, Hapuna, Mauna Lani North Mauna Lani South and Ko’olina • Ranges balls before play each day Entry into the Hawaii International Golf Week tournament Practice round at Hapuna Beach & free golf tuition with PGA professionals before the tournament. Welcome function at Hapuna Beach Hotel Nightly drinks, one hour each night at the tournament bar during the tournament. Player gift pack including tournament logo polo & cap valued at over $130 Tournament prize presentation dinner and drinks • Great prizes Full tournament & event organisation by Pacific Golf Management All transport to and from the golf courses plus return Airport to Hotel transfers Daily Hotel resort fees at both hotels is included All tax’s on accommodation, golf, meals and drinks included in the package
PLAYERS PP US$3744.00 (NON-PLAYERS US$2648.00) TWIN SHARE Special Tour Package
Special Tour Package • • • • • • • • • •
Air New Zealand Airpoints Pro-Am (31st May to 3rd June) Come and play in the 21st anniversary of this fun pro-am tournament. You don’t have to be a great player, just have an official handicap. Enjoy 3 rounds of golf and the fun pro-am tournament at Denarau Golf Course. Excellent amateur prizes, Sheraton Fiji Resort accommodation, 2 cocktail parties and the famous final night theme dinner.
Golf Tours
Special Tour Package • • • •
final night banquet and entertainment fantastic value for this all-inclusive package. Get in quick; this event sells out every year.
ASIA CHAMPIONSHIP TOUR Vietnam & Thailand March 19th - April 1st 2017
• 6 night’s accommodation at the Pullman Resort & Spa Da Nang • 5 night’s accommodation at the Hilton Resort & Spa Hua Hin • 2 night’s accommodation at the Westin Grande Hotel Bangkok • Buffet breakfast every day • 9 Rounds of golf at championship courses, including your own caddy & cart • Entry into the Da Nang International Golf Week tournament • Entry into the Thailand Golf Classic tournament. • Welcome cocktail party at the Pullman Resort & Spa in Da Nang • Welcome cocktail party at the Hilton Resort & Spa in Hua Hin • On course lunch & drink at all courses in Thailand • Nightly drinks at the tournament bar during the Thailand tournament. • Tournament prize presentation dinner & drinks at the Pullman Resort Da Nang • Tournament prize presentation dinner & drinks at the Hilton Resort & Spa, Hua Hin • Tournament players gift pack including, polo shirts, caps • All ground transfers, from airports to hotels and golf courses • Richard Ellis tournament and tour director
PLAYERS PP $4725.00 TWIN SHARE
www.pacificgolf.co.nz December 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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Noosa Springs tICks all the boxes
Springs, we were just warming up. The resort is an all-in-one destination boasting one of Australia’s finest golf courses, sprawling clubhouse, modern pro shop, fitness centre, spa, tennis courts, pool, award-winning restaurant, conference and wedding centre and firstclass accommodation. And it’s located just three kilometres from Hastings Street, bone-white beaches and the Noosa National Park. “We are close enough you can be near the hustle and bustle of Hastings Street, but also far enough away that you are in a private recluse,” Noosa Springs general manager Mark Brady said.
By David Newbery “WAS that you I waved to from the balcony of our unit?” my partner enquired when I returned from my round of golf at Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort. We were staying in an apartment overlooking the first fairway and she was hoping to catch a glimpse of me as I started my round and before she headed off to spend a lazy few hours around the pool. Don’t ask me why she had me in her sights. Perhaps she was in need of a good laugh.
“Anyway,” she continued, “I thought it was you because the person waved back. Then I realised it wasn’t you.” I was about to suggest she see an optometrist, but thought better of it and instead suggested we head for the spa and indulge in a flotation experience. It’s where you enjoy the feeling of weightlessness as the aches and pains gently float away. “One hour in the flotation pool is equivalent to six hours rest,” the spa attendant purred. Well, I spent most of the time in semi-
consciousness, but emerged energised and ready to savour the mouth-watering cuisine at the resort’s award-winning restaurant. Gluttons for pampering, the next morning we were back at the spa to revel in a Hydro Massage. Here, strong water jets knead your body and stimulate touch receptors of the skin, boost blood circulation and release tight muscles. The steam room, too, is deeply relaxing and is a great way to melt away stress. With so much to experience at Noosa
“We have 25 two-bedroom apartments, three five-bedroom, five bathroom luxury houses and two four-bedroom, four bathroom houses all with golf course frontage. “With the two-bed apartments, we have approval to lock off one bedroom to make them one-bedroom apartments for couples to enjoy and the houses are perfect for golfing groups of eight to 10 people.” With the additional accommodation and the other facilities on offer, Noosa Springs is now one of the most sought-after destinations in Australia. The golf course, designed by Graham Papworth, is best described as “risk-andreward” with an array of spectacular holes draped over the picturesque landscape
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 20
INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2016
FACT FILE featuring lakes (water comes into play on 14 holes) and 68 bunkers. Bordered by Lake Weyba, the course meanders through lush pockets of rainforest and is home of abundant wildlife including kangaroos, koalas and swans. There aren’t too many changes in elevation, but the golf course will test your course management skills as each hole is unique in character and challenge. “I describe the course as casually elegant and it’s in fantastic condition most of the year,” Brady said. “We have had the Australian PGA qualifying school here for three years and Russell Swanson and Andrew LangfordJones told us last year our the greens were among the best they had ever seen.” Off the black (championship) tees, the course stretches to 6180m, not overly long by today’s standards, but a good test for golfers of all standards. Off the blue tees it’s 5918m, whites 5575m and the reds 5299m. Award-winning PGA teaching professional Peter Heiniger said the secret to a good round was accuracy off the tee.
“The course can be demanding because there is bushland and trees lining many fairways as well as lakes and bunkers. “If you shoot a good score off the black tees, you have earned it and deserved it. “This golf course gets the golfer thinking a lot more. I think a good golf course is one that asks two questions – do I go here or do I go there? “That brings us to the signature hole – the short par-4 fifth (320m). “This hole puts golfers in two minds whether to use a driver or an iron off the tee.” That’s because there is water down the right all the way to the green. Mind you, gung-ho golfers often attempt to drive across the lake. “The 15th is another that puts golfers in two minds,” Heiniger said. A creek crosses the fairway at the 195m mark. Carrying the creek is a little harder than it looks and takes three good shots to hit the green in regulation. Two fairways bunkers and two greenside bunkers await any mishit shots.
Getting there: Noosa Springs is 30 minutes from the Sunshine Coast Airport and 90 minutes from Brisbane Airport.
charge accommodation, meals, drinks and golf. These memberships can be used for conferences and weekends away for senior staff.
Conference and events: Noosa Springs caters for weddings from four to 160 people and specialises in conference. Small boutique conferences from 12 to 20 people are popular.
Three-course pass: Noosa Springs is working with Twin Waters and Pelican Waters to put together a pass that people can purchase online and play a round of golf at three courses.
Dual membership: With its “sister club”, Links Hope Island, Noosa Springs has developed a dual corporate membership, which allows members to pre-purchase a certain amount of credit and use either facility. Members can
Location: Links Drive, Noosa Heads 4567.
The three finishing holes at Noosa Springs are excellent. The 16th is a long par-3 (181m) and the 17th is a dogleg left around a lake that borders the green so if there is any hesitation you could end in a watery grave. The 459m par-5 18th is a good finishing hole.
For more information: Call (07) 5440-3333 or visit the website www.noosasprings.com.au
good balance of short and long holes and that allows average-length hitters to plot and think their way around the course. At Noosa Springs, good shots are rewarded and poor ones punished. As an overall getaway destination, Noosa Springs is hard to beat. Our short stay over, we headed for the beach and later retreated to Noosa Surf Club’s magnificent deck for a sundowner and a bite to eat.
Longer hitters will have to avoid the second fairway bunker while there are trees on both sides of the fairway on the approach to the green. The green is large, but well protected by bunkers. The hole does give up the odd birdie and eagle, but most golfers will be satisfied with a par. What I like about Noosa Springs is it has a
From the deck, you can wave at total strangers leaving the beach and, as I discovered, they will reciprocate – just as they do at Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort. This is definitely one friendly holiday destination.
With 22 ensuite rooms, a solar-heated pool and spa, tennis court, kitchen, comfy lounge, laundry, spacious grounds with BBQ’s and off-street parking, the Guest House, is the ideal place to unwind after a challenging day “finessing” the score card. www.thailandgolftours.com.au
Point Lonsdale Guest House 31 Point Lonsdale Road Point Lonsdale VIC 3225 Ph: (03) 5258 1142 info@pointlonsdaleguesthouse.com.au www.pointlonsdaleguesthouse.com.au
December 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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GOLD COAST WORLD MASTERS
CELEBRATES 21st YEAR T
he Ladbrokes World Masters, Australia’s biggest and richest international tournament for club golfers, hosted its 21st annual tournament on the Gold Coast in October. Tournament organisers, Go Golfing, promised big things and delivered the Gold Coast’s four best courses, 317 daily golf awards, $120,000 in prizes, nightly 19th Hole parties and glamorous welcome and presentation dinners. Many long-time participants rated this year’s Ladbrokes World Masters the best ever.
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INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL | December 2016
With entertainment recognised as a vital ingredient for fostering great fun and new-found friendships, no expense was spared for the opening and closing dinners. The welcome dinner was hosted at the Australian Outback Spectacular, with Go Golfing booking out the entire arena for the evening’s festivities. With an exhilarating show, welcome dinner and drinks included, the golfers and their partners enjoyed the entire 1000 seat stadium to themselves. Sporting a different theme at the 19th Hole each night, the 60s and 70s and
80s nights were a big hit. There was no shortage of entertainment with fire twirlers and extravagant performers on stilts who charmed the crowd with their skills. 450 golfers teed off in the four-round Championship which has 13 tournament divisions based on age and handicap. The four course rotation for all players was the private members-only The Pines at Sanctuary Cove, Palm Meadows, The Glades and RACV Royal Pines Resort. Championship winners received upwards of $700 in trophies and prizes,
including latest release Srixon equipment, Golf Buddy GPS, Golf World gift vouchers and more. Budiman Effendi from Jakarta took home the major prize of a South African golf safari for 2 including flights valued at $22,000. Tournament sponsor Ladbrokes provided all participants with a free $25 bet on what state or country they thought the highest scoring player would come from. NSW and VIC were favourites, each returning $100, while the payout on an ACT or Tassie win topped $350. Playing
Peter McCarthy congratulates the winner of the $20,000 major draw prize
off 8, Graham Rimmer from Beerwah (QLD) scored 144 points, the best for the tournament, winning the Men’s 56-65 A Grade and big cheers from those who punted on a QLD victory. Ladbrokes also offered a $5,000 cash prize for anyone scoring a hole in hole during the Championship rounds. While the tournament has yielded 18 holein-ones, including three in 2012, none achieved the feat this year. The average winning score across the 13 tournament divisions was just 131 points this year, further proof that the handicapping checks and adjustments made by the tournament committee are delivering a level playing field. Mark Hawley was in high praise of the tournament committee, “We review the 6-month playing history of all players. Past winners play off a reduced handicap. Players scoring consistently well have their handicap reduced during the tournament. We have undertaken a lot of measures to weed out the bandits.”
Non-golfing partners attend all of the tournament dinners and nightly socials and this year enjoyed a morning tea and day tour of Springbrook National Park, shopping up a storm at Harbour Town outlet shopping centre and a relaxing river cruise with lunch.
Coast has never missed the event since it started back in 1996.
Masters Golf Championship which runs 8-13 October 2017.
This is a tournament with some amazing stats. Tournament host Peter McCarthy from Gold Coast based Go Golfing has shared some fun facts about the events’ 21-year history:
According to Go Golfing’s managing director Peter McCarthy, settling on an event package that suits the tastes and budgets of 700 people is a challenge. “Some want 5 star, others are on a budget. In recognition of this, in addition to the standard Tournament Package we now offer a Premium Package option. This optional package included VIP seating at the Australian Outback Spectacular, VIP seating with a premium drinks package at the Gala Presentation Dinner, $50 voucher redeemable at Golf World and entry to the Hope Island Skins Day.”
• 62,512 rounds played on the Gold Coast’s resort courses
Go Golfing, recently voted Oceania’s Best Golf Tour Operator again in 2016 at the prestigious World Golf Awards, is Australia’s biggest organiser of events, tours and holidays for club golfers. Established in 1996, Go Golfing has an impressive portfolio of hosted golf tours as well as Masters (over 35’s) golf tournaments. In addition to the Ladbrokes World Masters these events include:
Testimony to the event’s enduring quality, 61 golfers have now played in 10 or more of the Gold Coast World Masters while Glenn Dodds from the Sunshine
• An estimated 184,500 golf balls lost or hit into the water • $1.74 million in prizes including 8 new cars and 35 overseas holidays • 4 weddings and no funerals – 4 couples who met at the tournament have got hitched Golf Fore A Cause, supporting Breast and Prostate Cancer Foundations were the beneficiaries from this year’s charity raffle. Go Golfing’s World Masters events have now raised more than $259,000 for cancer research. Planning is already underway for the 22nd edition of the Ladbrokes World
22-27 Jan 2017 - Wrest Point International Masters, Hobart 11-17 June 2017 - Centara World Masters, Thailand 20-26 August 2017 – Accor Vietnam World Masters. These tournaments are always a hit and sell out fast. More: www.gogolfing.net.au or freecall 1300 55 28 55. •
Phone +61 3 9809 1022 info@gimmegolf.com.au www.gimmegolf.com.au
International and domestic golf travel specialists
Thailand Super Specials 2017 Pattaya $985 4 Star Centara Hotel $1,260 5 Star Marriott Hotel • • • • •
PATTAyA 1 Free round BurAPAHA GC
6 Night’s accommodation and daily buffet breakfast 3 rounds of golf with carts and caddies each round Laem Chabang Siam Plantation and St Andrews All private transfers airport, golf and hotel air conditioned modern van English speaking driver and assistance throughout tour
Hua Hin $1,060 4 Star Amari Hotel $1,230 5 Star Hilton Hotel
HuA HIn 1 Free round BAnyAn GC
• 6 Night’s accommodation and daily buffet breakfast • 3 rounds of golf with carts and caddies each round • Black Mountain, Lakeview and Springfield • All private transfers airport, golf and hotel air conditioned modern van • English speaking driver and assistance throughout tour
PHuket $1,295 4 Star Swissotel Hotel $1,445 5 Star Dusit Thani Hotel
PHukeT 1 Free round LoCH PALM GC
• 6 Night’s accommodation and daily buffet breakfast • 3 rounds of golf with carts and caddies each round • Red Mountain, Blue Canyon and Laguna CC • All private transfers airport, golf and hotel air conditioned modern van • English speaking driver and assistance throughout tour
CHiang Mai $875 4 Star Holiday Inn $1,175 5 Star Ratilanna Riverside
CHAnG MAI 1 Free round CHIAnG MAI HIGHLAndS
• 6 Night’s accommodation and daily buffet breakfast • 3 rounds of golf with carts and caddies each round • Alpine, Summit Green and Royal Chang Mai • All private transfers airport, golf and hotel air conditioned modern van • English speaking driver and assistance throughout tour
All tour prices above are based on Low season 7/5/2017 and 30/09/2017 but pricing can be provided outside of This. Prices are also based on minimum 4 golfers. Surcharges can apply for weekend golf in Pattaya. Gimme Golf provides bonus rounds at 4 golf clubs in Pattaya, Hua Hin, Chiang Mai and Phuket until our allocation of 180 rounds is complete for 2017. Gimme Golf is a licensed Travel agent and airfares can be added to all packages.
December 2016 | INSIDE GOLF TRAVEL
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GOLF GOURMET (JON)