Visit Victoria’s premier golf destinations during the Australian Open.
If you’re heading to Melbourne for the Australian Open, you’re in for a treat beyond the tournament itself. Victoria’s golf landscape offers a stunning array of courses, each with its unique charm, architectural brilliance and world-class facilities. So, whether you’re staying in Melbourne or venturing a bit further afield, you’ll find an unforgettable round of golf at these iconic locations. Here are a few suggestions to get you on your way.
1. Woodlands Golf Club (Melbourne Sandbelt)
Woodlands Golf Club, a revered Melbourne course often considered part of the famed Sandbelt region, is currently undergoing a series of subtle enhancements that showcase the importance of evolution in golf course management. While the classic 18-hole layout remains unchanged, these improvements aim to enhance the playing experience by allowing the course to “breathe”.
The club has engaged consulting architects Mike Clayton and Harley Kruse to oversee these improvements. Members and guests can look forward to a renovated first and 10th tee area, along with a new short-game practice area that complements the club’s driving range. Additionally, the club is focusing on the surrounding indigenous vegetation, which will help to improve airflow and visibility throughout the course.
The goal at Woodlands is to preserve its old-school style while enhancing the natural beauty of the site. Golfers will appreciate the challenge presented by the layout, particularly at holes like the exacting 251-metre par-4 fourth, which requires precise placement and strategy for a successful approach.
2. Eastern Golf Club (Yarra Valley)
Nestled in the serene Yarra Valley, Eastern Golf Club is a course designed for players of all skill levels. Relocated from Doncaster to Yering in 2015, this 36-hole masterpiece, with an additional nine-hole par-3 course called Shark Waters, blends tradition with modern design. Greg Norman’s architecture shines through in its three nine-hole loops, making the layout both challenging for experienced golfers and approachable for newcomers.
The par-3 Shark Waters isn’t just for beginners – it features holes stretching up to 170 metres, demanding skill and strategy from the best golfers. The course’s wide-open fairways allow flexibility off the tee, but the real challenge comes from its huge greens and intricate bunkering. Norman’s design encourages risk-taking, with daring shots often rewarded by better angles to the green. Miss your target, and you’ll be testing your short game against tricky undulations and subtle slopes.
Stay at one of the Yering Gorge Cottages for a complete getaway experience. The resort offers “Stay & Play” packages, allowing you to enjoy a few extra days of golf, paired with some of the best food and wine in the region.
3. Curlewis Golf Club (Bellarine Peninsula)
Curlewis Golf Club, located on the Bellarine Peninsula, has evolved from a lesser-known course into one of the most innovative golf destinations in Australia. After a significant transformation led by architect Mike Clayton, Curlewis is now a must-visit for golf enthusiasts. It boasts a Sandbelt-like terrain, with rippling fairways, strategic bunkering, and greens that demand precision.
The course is best known for its standout par-4 12th hole. Just longer than 300 metres, it offers a tantalising challenge – low handicappers can aim for the green from the elevated tee, while others can navigate the ridged fairway cautiously. Curlewis caters to all players with its blend of challenge and charm, making it a rewarding experience for both beginners and experts.
But it’s not just the course that makes Curlewis special. The club has become a comprehensive golf destination, featuring modern accommodation for up to 126 guests, a tech-driven driving range and even a mini-golf course. Whether you’re visiting for a quick round or staying for the weekend, Curlewis offers more than just 18 holes – it’s a golf lover’s paradise.
4. Lonsdale Links (Bellarine Peninsula)
Lonsdale Links stands out on the Bellarine Peninsula for its unique redesign by Ogilvy Cocking Mead (OCM). Originally a modest course, Lonsdale underwent a complete transformation, becoming one of the most innovative layouts in the region. The course is known for incorporating famous architectural concepts from courses around the world, blending homage with creativity.
A prime example is the reverse Redan hole, inspired by North Berwick’s famed hole in Scotland, and the 16th hole, reminiscent of the famous Road Hole from St Andrews. These template designs offer golfers a glimpse into classic golf architecture while providing a fresh take on these historic concepts.
The quirky layout – measuring 5,505 metres from the back tees – features distinctive elements such as square-edged greens, tiny tee markers, and even the possibility of putting a ball out-of-bounds on one hole. The course offers a new experience every time, with constantly changing wind conditions and varied pin placements.
For those seeking a truly memorable round, Lonsdale Links is a course where you’ll want to take your time and savour the architectural ingenuity on display.
5. Moonah Links Open Course (Mornington Peninsula)
If you’re in search of a championship-level challenge, Moonah Links Open Course is the place to be. Designed by the legendary Peter Thomson with the Australian Open in mind, this course on the Mornington Peninsula is both beautiful and brutal. Measuring more than 6,800 metres from the back tees, it demands accuracy, patience and strategic play.
Moonah Links has hosted two Australian Opens, and the course’s difficulty is well documented. Wind, deep pot bunkers and sprawling fairways make it a stern test for golfers of all abilities. However, the beauty of Thomson’s design is in its versatility – forward tees offer a more forgiving experience while still showcasing the course’s standout features.
The essence of Moonah Links lies in its bunkering. With countless strategically placed sand traps, golfers are constantly challenged to think their way around the course. Each shot requires consideration of wind direction, distance, and angle of attack – making Moonah Links a true thinking golfer’s course.
6. The Sebel Yarrawonga & Black Bull Golf Course (Murray River)
For those looking for a luxurious escape paired with world-class golf, The Sebel Yarrawonga and Black Bull Golf Course provide an unmatched experience on the banks of Lake Mulwala. While a bit further afield – about a three-hour drive from Melbourne – this resort has earned its place as one of Australia’s best luxury golf destinations.
The Sebel Yarrawonga’s top-notch amenities include exquisite dining options, an infinity-edge pool and a host of activities that cater for both golfers and non-golfers. The real star of the show, however, is Black Bull Golf Course, designed by Peter Thomson and Ross Perrett. Ranked among Australia’s Top 100 Courses, Black Bull is famous for its “Bull Ring” – a dramatic three-hole stretch that echoes the challenge of Augusta National’s famed Amen Corner.
Black Bull also offers corporate golf events and personalised lessons, making it an ideal venue for serious players and those looking to improve their game in a stunning setting. Whether you arrive by car, boat or even private air charter, The Sebel Yarrawonga offers an unforgettable golf getaway.
For more information on Victoria’s many play and stay golf destinations, visit visitvictoria.com
