The 27-hole club in Victoria’s stunning Yarra Valley is moving forward in multiple ways
Eastern Golf Club provides a tranquil escape for golfers just an hour from Melbourne’s CBD. Boasting a 27-hole complex, players are welcomed by expansive fairways and generous greens. The Greg Norman-designed course is complemented by a nine-hole, par-3 layout – ‘Shark Waters’ – that is perfect for beginners looking to transition into course play or those wishing to hone their short game with a quick loop after work. An ideal accompaniment to the primary layout, the Shark Waters holes aren’t dinky, pitch-and-putt par 3s. Some measure into the 160 and 170-metre range and the full nine requires most irons in the bag to complete. What the Shark Waters course also does is provide an alternative playing option for members and visitors, as well as enhancing the family-friendly aspect of the club.
After a devastating fire caused by an electrical fault in the switchboard that destroyed the grand clubhouse, the club has started rebuilding an identical facility. Construction began in September and is progressing strongly with members and guests expected to be welcomed back to the building in spring 2025. The sprawling clubhouse in the style of a classic country house will again be home to a spacious lounge area with bar and restaurant where many a post-round post mortem has taken place, as well as a function space.
A new management team, including Brett Nelson whose golf career includes 17 years at The National, and Simon Andrew who has moved to the club after a 14-year stint at The Grange, has seen much change in the past months with a focus on improvement in course conditioning and member playability; fairways are being shaped back to their original design to bring out and enhance architectural features Norman intended.
Completing the picture at Eastern Golf Club is Yering Gorge Cottages, a smattering of modern and luxurious cottages on a hillside overlooking the golf course and adjoining the nearby Yarra River. The cottages allow complete freedom to roam the property in this delightful corner of the Yarra Valley, making the notion of letting a weekend slip away without leaving the premises both real and inviting.
The 13 cottages include one and two-bedroom configurations, plus one five-bedder for larger groups to ensure any golf trip is covered.
Eastern Golf Club are signatories to the R&A Women’s in Golf Charter, currently boasting a vibrant women’s membership with a focus on camaraderie and social connection.
The club currently has five, six and seven-day memberships available with no joining fee until February 28, 2025.
The Eastern Golf Club
Where: 215 Victoria Rd, Yering VIC 3770
Phone: (03) 9739 0110
Web: easterngolfclub.com.au
Feature photography by Gary Lisbon
