The transformation of the Macarthur region’s Lakeside Golf Club Camden is a story of evolution and revival, reflecting the area’s changing landscape and the club’s commitment to excellence.
In the 1980s, El Caballo Blanco and its famed Andalusian stallions captivated the region, but as the equine park closed its doors in 2007, the area began to undergo significant development. Master-planned communities like Willowdale, Emerald Hills, Gledswood Hills, The Hermitage and Gregory Hills emerged, reshaping the once-sleepy countryside into a bustling metropolis.
Amid this change, Lakeside Golf Club Camden, formerly known as Camden Lakeside Golf Resort and which opened in 1993, has undergone its own remarkable transformation. Originally designed as a pay-to-play resort by a Japanese consortium, the club struggled to establish its identity and attract golfers in the competitive Sydney golf scene.
However, with new management by Wests Group Macarthur in 2012, Lakeside underwent a significant facelift, including a $5 million redesign of the entire course in collaboration with developer Sekisui House. This revitalisation effort was further bolstered by a clubhouse extension and the introduction of new management practices.
The result was a golf experience that garnered praise and recognition, including the Golf NSW Metropolitan Golf Club of the Year award in 2019.
One of the key figures in Lakeside’s transformation was James Wilcher of Golf By Design, renowned for his expertise in golf-course redesign. Wilcher’s redesign focused on enhancing the course’s playability and aesthetic appeal. He introduced new T-1 Creeping Bentgrass putting surfaces, strategically placed bunkers and subtle alterations to the layout, addressing the challenges posed by residential development encroaching on the course and ensuring a seamless transition between old and new.
The redesign also preserved the essence of Lakeside’s original design, with its rolling countryside setting and generous fairways. The course’s unique features, such as the pot-style bunkers reminiscent of five-time Open champion Peter Thomson’s designs, add to its charm and challenge.
Today, Lakeside Golf Club Camden stands as a testament to perseverance and innovation. Its firm, fast-running couch fairways provide a rare links-style golf experience in Sydney, offering golfers a unique and memorable round. As the region continues to grow, Lakeside remains a beacon of excellence, inviting golfers to enjoy a challenging and picturesque course amid the evolving landscape of south-western Sydney.
Lakeside Golf Club Camden also offers a multi-award-winning wedding and function centre with titles including Best Golf Club Wedding Venue in Australia, Top 5 Wedding Co-ordinator in Australia, and Best Australian Wedding Venue at a Golf & Country Club from various bridal industry Awards.
Seven-day membership is $1,650 (midweek membership is $1,050). There is no joining fee at present. The green fee to play Lakeside Golf Club Camden is $85 on weekends with cart and $70 on weekdays with cart.
THE DETAILS
Lakeside Golf Club Camden
Raby Rd, Gledswood Hills NSW 2557
(02) 4634 5834
camdenlakeside.com.au
