Golf is growing in Australia. Participation rates are up, club memberships are up and general interest in the game is on the rise post-pandemic.
All of this means, if you’re not a member of a club, that you’re probably already finding it difficult to find a tee time. So, if you’re looking for a course to play where you don’t need to know a member to get a game, or a place where the golf is interesting and fun … a place that will hopefully provide you with a memorable golfing experience. You’ve come to the right place.
This presentation of Australia’s Top-100 Public Access Courses for 2023 is somewhat different to past rankings, with several highly-acclaimed layouts not appearing, some new courses making their mark and a host of improving layouts forcing their way into the top grade.
What you will find is that every course appearing in this ranking, as well as those that just missed out, offer public access tee times at least five and a half days a week. This benchmark standard has always been the foundation of our public access rankings. Sticking to that guideline, seven courses that appeared in our 2021 Public Access Courses ranking – Barwon Heads, Newcastle, Bonville, Ranfurlie, Indooroopilly, Sanctuary Cove’s Palms Course and Settlers Run – were not considered for this ranking as they have reduced their public access tee times. That said, in many cases you can still play these courses, either as a resort guest or by booking ahead for the times they still have available.
Also not considered for this ranking was Links Kennedy Bay and Pelican Waters, as both have been undergoing major redesign construction work for most of the voting period since January 2021.
La Nina and the associated flooding of many areas in the eastern states has also had an effect on this ranking, with Riverside Oaks’ Bungool Course closed for significant periods due to flood damage and, therefore, not considered. Other courses, particularly those along the Murray River, throughout Victoria and in northern NSW, that have been affected by recent floods still appear in the list having been judged prior to these events.
There is also a host of courses – 16 in all – that didn’t appear in this ranking in 2021 but make their mark here including the acclaimed Lonsdale Links, Barnbougle’s 14-hole short course Bougle Run, Melbourne’s Sandy Golf Links and the northern NSW nine-holer, Teven Valley. Teven Valley becomes the first nine-hole course ever to make this national ranking.
We hope you enjoy our 2023 Top-100 Public Access Courses ranking and it comes in handy as a guide to planning your next round or golfing getaway … Enjoy!
100. DUNTRYLEAGUE CC
Orange, New South Wales
DOWN 2
Judge’s comments: “Duntryleague has long been regarded as one of the best courses in regional NSW and for good reason. The design, overseen by acclaimed course architect Eric Apperly back in 1935, has withstood the test of time and remains a great test.” – Joe Thomas.
“With the historic Duntryleague mansion standing above the surrounding course, a round here is a great experience, especially in autumn when cooler temperature turns the dozens of species of trees across the property into a colourful display.” – Julie Stokes.
99. TOOWOOMBA GC (Middle Ridge)
Toowoomba, Queensland
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “What a pleasant surprise Toowoomba was. Condition-wise, I couldn’t fault the place with very good kikuyu fairways and terrific bentgrass greens.” – Terry Anderson.
“The layout is much better than what it was when I last played at Toowoomba about a decade ago. I really like the changes, including the relatively new par-4 9th hole, but my favourite hole remains the little downhill par-3 7th over the lake. A real nerve jangler!” – Toby Greenwood.
98. BUNBURY GC
Clifton Park, Western Australia
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “Legend has it the great Seve Ballesteros played here back in the day and this is the kind of course where his supernatural powers of escaping trouble would have thrived. Bunbury features plenty of heavily tree-lined doglegging holes where you can easily run into trouble. That level of challenge was exciting.” – Peter Anton.
“Bunbury opens with a par-3 on both nines, but it is the diminutive downhill 10th that all first-timers to the course will love. The tee sits about 30 metres above the angled green – with large bunkers short and long – and an accompanying view of the nearby estuary. What a gem!” – Phil Nicholls.
97. PALMER GOLD COAST
Robina, Queensland
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “I was a little disappointed at the conditioning of the old Robina Woods when I last played there pre-COVID. But returning there in 2022 I really liked what I found and it certainly complements what I have always considered one of the more interesting places to play on the Gold Coast.” – Craig Smart.
96. PAMBULA MERIMBULA GC – Red/Yellow Course, 10-27
Pambula, New South Wales
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “Pambula Merimbula has been knocking on the door of a place in this ranking for several years and now all the good work that has been carried out on the course has paid off. The 27-hole Pambula Merimbula features some memorable holes, with the lion’s share to be found on holes 10 to 27 layout. I particularly like the heavily wooded confines of the back nine of this routing, with the long par-5 23rd being a challenging standout and the start of an impressive run of holes back to the clubhouse.” – Lucas Andrews.
95. BLACKWOOD GC
Cherry Gardens, South Australia
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “What an absolutely wonderful place to play. Right in the heart of the Adelaide Hills, Blackwood was a real eye-opener to me as a visitor from interstate. It was well-manicured and featured plenty of interesting holes, with the 12th, 15th and 16th holes being a standout for me. There’s some really good elevation change across the
course, while several sharp doglegs and their strategic demands add to the enjoyment.” – Nathan Burgess.
“I thoroughly enjoyed Blackwood. It boasts some really interesting holes (the 15th is a cracker) and it was such a beautiful walk … and just 20km from the Adelaide CBD.” – Deborah Hill.
94. TEVEN VALLEY
Teven, New South Wales
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “This is one of the best nine-hole courses I’ve ever played. It is beautifully presented, and Craig Parry’s redesign has transformed and elevated what was previously just another nine-hole course that had great potential based on the land it was on.” – Hamish Walker.
“A fantastic redesign from Craig Parry and put into play at a high standard by
course super Paul Gumbleton. The choice of zoysia from tee to green cannot be questioned as these playing surfaces are superb, while the Tifeagle greens are outstanding.” – Brett Oldham.
“Teven Valley does in nine holes what some 18-hole layouts fail to do … make every hole interesting, fun and challenging.” – Brendan James.
www.tevenvalleygolfcourse.com.au
93. BRIGHTON LAKES R&GC
Moorebank, New South Wales
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “Born out of a redevelopment of land formerly occupied for decades by New Brighton Golf Club, Brighton Lakes is a much better course than it ever was. Redesigned by Bob Harrison, this is a modern, highly playable course for players of all standards.” – Lucas Andrews.
“Reopened after the Bob Harrison redesign in 2019, Brighton Lakes has never looked better. The playing surfaces are very good, while the visual appeal is highlighted by Harrison’s bunkering and the many water hazards that are in play on half of the holes. I don’t think I could ever be bored playing here.” – Joseph Kent.
92. HORIZONS RESORT
Salamander Bay, New South Wales
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “After an absence of more than a dozen years, an ever-improving Horizons returns to this ranking. The course’s demise began in the mid 2000s and it wasn’t until the current owners took the reins and invested heavily in the layout that Horizons turned the corner. Today, the Graham Marsh and Ross Watson-designed course, which was celebrated in the 90s, is winning praise again for its presentation and interesting holes.” – Brendan James.
“I returned to play Horizons early in 2022 after nearly 10 years, when I walked off mid-round because the greens were horrible. Having heard the course had improved I went back and it is almost back to what it was when it hosted Tour events in the early 2000s. I can’t wait to go back.” – Alex Georgiou.
91. CLUB CATALINA G&CC – Old Course, 1-18
Bateman’s Bay, New South Wales
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “Another 27-hole course on NSW’s South Coast offering three 18-hole combinations. Holes 1 to 18, known as the Old Course, is the best routing with the greatest number of attractive, fun holes. The course improvement plan, by course designer Harley Kruse, has seen non-native trees removed as well as the redesign of the par-4 15th hole, which is now one of the best on the layout.” – Lucas Andrews.
“Great greens, fun holes and all in a beautiful setting. Catalina never disappoints.” – Susan Johnson.
90. COBRAM-BAROOGA GC – Old Course
Barooga, New South Wales
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “The redesign work on the Old Course have grown in and enhanced a round here. The new 18th, a short par-4 that offers a semi-blind tee shot, is memorable as is the driveable old 1st hole, which sits better within the re-routing as the 16th. Both holes create a wonderful climax to the round where anything can happen, depending on your level of aggression from the tee.” – Scott Matthews.
89. PALMER COOLUM RESORT
Yaroomba, Queensland
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “The Robert Trent Jones Jnr-designed Coolum course makes a return to the Top-100 Public Access Courses ranking after an absence of four years. The Sunshine Coast layout dropped out of this ranking and others on the back of a decline in presentation, which compromised Jones’ creation. Recent visits have revealed a better level of presentation, but this judge would love to see the routing returned to its original, ending with the iconic 18th hole.” – Brendan James.
“Course is definitely in better shape than it was a few years ago, but still a long way from its glory days.” – Craig Smart.
“I was so pleased to play at Coolum again and come away happy with the quality of the course.” – Charles Thomas.
88. LAKES ENTRANCE GC
Lakes Entrance, Victoria
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “Lakes Entrance is a fine example of a course that was built with minimal earthmoving and designed based on the natural landforms. The outward nine, closest to the beach, is outstanding in its simplicity and reliance upon the conditions to protect par. The back nine ramps up the challenge with more tree-lined holes, and a full water carry at the par-3 15th, to draw the curtain on a fun and diverse round of golf.” – Graham Brady.
“Lakes Entrance is a gem. It’s not a hidden gem anymore, but a gem nonetheless.” – James Walsh.
87. ALICE SPRINGS GC
Alice Springs, Northern Territory
DOWN 3
Judge’s comments: “Australia’s original desert course has dropped a few spots here but it received more voting points than it did in 2021, which suggests it has improved but so have many courses around it in the ranking. ‘Alice’ is a golfing oasis and the back nine setting, played against the backdrop of the spectacular MacDonnell Ranges, provides an experience worth the green fee alone.” – Brendan James.
www.alicespringsgolfclub.com.au
86. PALMER SEA REEF
Port Douglas, Queensland
DOWN 6
Judge’s comments: “I’ve played Sea Reef many times since it opened in 2001 and have always enjoyed Mike Wolveridge’s creative design. Who would have thought a links course could work in the tropics? It is always fun to play but it doesn’t really play like a true links course, that is firm and fast, despite being built on sand. A highlight for me is the often-dramatic green complexes, with the opening green being one of the best.” – John Blackwell.
“I’ve always liked this layout and have considered it the best in North Queensland for some time, even better than the now closed Paradise Palms down the road near Cairns. But its presentation has been a little up and down in recent years.” – Christian Harris.
85. COFFS HARBOUR GC – Lakes Course, 1-18
Coffs Harbour, New South Wales
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “Subtle elevation changes and a wide variety of different holes requiring a range of shots, combined with beautifully manicured fairways and greens, make Coffs a favourite for me.” – Daniel O’Keefe.
“Having seen Craig Parry’s redesign work at Teven Valley, I’ll be interested to see what he does under his masterplan at Coffs Harbour, especially on the Lakes Course, which I consider is already a challenging and enjoyable layout.” – Brett Oldham.
www.coffsharbourgolfclub.com.au
84. SHELLY BEACH GC
Shelly Beach, New South Wales
UP 2
Judge’s comments: “Shelly Beach may have only climbed two spots in this ranking, but it is the third appearance by the NSW Central Coast course in this ranking and each time its rank has been higher than the last. This is one of NSW’s most picturesque courses, with its holes closest to the adjoining beach, being obvious highlights.” – Brendan James.
“Shelly Beach continues to improve from one visit to another. There are few better golfing views in this part of the world.” – Nikki Scott.
www.shellybeachgolfclub.com.au
83. TURA BEACH CC
Tura Beach, New South Wales
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “Tura Beach is probably in the best shape I have seen it in the past decade, which makes you appreciate the Peter Thomson and Mike Wolveridge design even more.” – Nathan Burgess.
“Tura Beach was a mystery to me until early 2022 when I went on a golf road trip from Melbourne to Sydney. The designers did a great job considering the layout is spread across the side of a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The landscape has given rise to some memorable, sweeping holes that cling to the terrain with none better than the rollercoaster ride between tee and green on the par-5 18th.” – Sam Brooking.
www.turabeachcountryclub.com.au
82. THE SANDHURST CLUB – North Course
Sandhurst, Victoria
UP 3
Judge’s comments: “The North Course is relatively flat, making for an easy walk, but the subtle ripples in the fairways do have some influence on the shape of shots you will hit. I quite enjoyed my last round here as its width from the tee keeps you in play but finding the right spot to have an easier follow-up shot takes a lot more skill.” – Edward Lee.
“Of the two Sandhurst courses the North is my favourite because it makes you think more about the shot in front of you as well as the shot you might have straight after it.”
– Debbie Walker.
81. ULVERSTONE GC
West Ulverstone, Tasmania
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “The late Al Howard’s creation on the north west coast of Tassie has been vying for a spot in this ranking for several years and recent tweaks to the design and set-up of the course, as well as improved conditioning, has seen it surge into the Top-100.” – Brendan James.
“What a magnificent setting for golf amongst the tallest of eucalypt trees, which line most holes and make you feel tiny in comparison.” – Julie Stokes.
80. BYRON BAY GC
Byron Bay, New South Wales
UP 1
Judge’s comments: “This might be the best conditioned course in northern NSW. If it isn’t, it’s definitely on the podium.” – Deborah Hill.
“It is amazing how much of a difference switching the nines at Byron Bay has made. The closing five holes are now are far more demanding and memorable than they were as the front nine holes, probably because they have more impact on your scorecard. Finishing on the water-flanked 18th hole, as it is now, is far more challenging with the clubhouse in view and the need to make a par to play to close out a good round.” – Greg Rogers.
79. NUDGEE GC Bay Course*
Nudgee, Queensland
UP 9
Judge’s comments: “The huge James Wilcher redesign has bedded in well and the Bay Course (incorporating the back nine of the 18-hole Kurrai and front nine of the adjoining Bulka Course) offers a wide variety of shots and experiences. The fairways are wide but demand strategic placement of shots if you are entertaining the thought of shooting a low score.” – Sam Brooking.
“This is so much better than the Nudgee I remember playing 15 years ago. While there are trees on the course, there is a hint of links golf about the round here despite a significant number of bunkers seemingly raised above their surrounds.” – Richard O’Reilly.
*The Bay Course was judged for this ranking as it was the course most accessible to the public during the voting period. The remaining nine holes of the Bulka Course, which will be public accessible, opened shortly after voting for this ranking closed.
78. OCEAN SHORES CC
Ocean Shores, New South Wales
UP 12
Judge’s comments: “In the year of its 50th anniversary, Ocean Shores looked absolutely mint when I visited in early 2022. I’ve always liked the six par-3s, par-4s and par-5s aspect of the design, but this enjoyment was heightened by the quality of the playing surfaces.” – Greg Rogers.
“Ocean Shores has risen again in this ranking and I certainly expect once the club gets deeper into implementing designer Richard Chamberlain’s masterplan – focusing on new greens and bunker remodelling – the course will climb even further in this list.” – Brendan James.
77. FORSTER-TUNCURRY GC – Tuncurry Course
Tuncurry, New South Wales
UP 6
Judge’s comments: “I love this golf course. It’s a simple design across rolling sandy terrain, which has been even made better in recent years with some smart vegetation management.” – Lucas Andrews.
“Tuncurry is a course with enormous potential. It already boasts a terrific routing, wonderful natural design and a beautiful setting to play the game. You can’t ask for much more than that.” – Alex Georgiou.
www.forstertuncurrygolf.com.au
76. SECRET HARBOUR GL
Secret Harbour, Western Australia
DOWN 1
Judge’s comments: “Secret Harbour is one of the strongest tests of golf in the region, especially when the wind blows, with the undulating back nine holes around and beside the dunes a definite highlight. Graham Marsh’s first-class design demands a wide range of shots and if you know how to play a knock down shot, you’re at an advantage here.” – Ken Robinson.
75. GROWLING FROG
Yan Yean, Victoria
UP 3
Judge’s comments: “A beautiful ‘Australian’ setting for golf just a short drive out of Melbourne to the north. Magnificent old red river gums and huge eucalypts dot the Graham Marsh-designed course, which has been created with golfers of all standards in mind.” – James Walsh.
“Growling Frog has some really cool holes – the hairpin loop of the par-4 4th, par-3 5th and par-4 6th is a good example – and interesting green complexes where expansive bunkers, mounds and swales co-exist. The high quality of the bentgrass greens is also of note.” – Tristan Holmes.
“After paying $40 for 18 holes here, I expected a $40 golfing experience. I would have happily paid double to play Growling Frog again.” – Paul Wilson.
74. HORSHAM GC
Horsham, Victoria
UP 17
Judge’s comments: “Five years ago Horsham was in danger of dropping out of this ranking after free-falling nearly 50 spots in the Top-100 Public Access Courses ranking. In the years since, there has been significant investment and improvements made to the course, which have delighted our judges, especially those who recall how good the course was before the destructive bushfires wiped it out in 2009.” – Brendan James.
“Horsham has improved noticeably during the past few years and it must now be considered as offering one of the best value-for-money rounds in the country.” – Craig Smart.
73. BRIBIE ISLAND GC
Woorim, Queensland
UP 6
Judge’s comments: “The Bribie Island layout got smashed by floodwater running through the course early in 2022 but when I visited in October it was in terrific nick. Laid out on sandy terrain, it’s not surprising that the expansive bunkering is a real highlight.” – Gavin Hill.
“This is certainly a challenging layout for all players, and for different reasons. There are demanding par-4s like the 2nd and 10th where length and accuracy are a must and shorter hitters might be happy with a bogey, while the par-3 16th is a real intimidator as you line up to get your tee shot over the lake between you and the green.” – Richard O’Reilly.
72. THE SANDHURST CLUB – Champions Course
Sandhurst, Victoria
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “This is a big golf course with some big moments throughout. There’s probably none bigger than the tee shot on the shortest hole on the course, the par-3 11th, named after Norman Von Nida. It’s only a short iron but the prospect of dropping short in the wasteland bunker, or finding a deeper sandy hazard left or right, can rattle your nerves on the tee.” – Jack Donaldson.
“If this course, and the neighbouring North Course for that matter, were located anywhere but on the edge of the world-famous Melbourne Sandbelt I reckon it would be more acclaimed – its challenging, fun and generally presents really well.” – James Walsh.
71. MONA VALE GC
Mona Vale, New South Wales
NO CHANGE
Judge’s comments: “What an idyllic place to spend an afternoon playing golf. The reward here is getting through 15 holes and making the climb to the tee of the par-3 16th and getting the ocean view beyond the green below. Beautiful!” – Nikki Scott.
“A wonderful mix of tree-lined holes that lead you to a closing trio of more exposed holes where water and wind can potentially ruin your scorecard, all within sight of the clubhouse.” – Joe Thomas.
70. MURWILLUMBAH GC
Murwillumbah, New South Wales
NO CHANGE
Judge’s comments: “This my favourite course in the northern rivers area of NSW. No two holes are the same here with each walk into a tee offering a new challenge. The round opens strongly with a cracking medium-length downhill par-4, with water left and sand
right. The short back nine opener – an uphill par-3 of 137 metres played against a scenic backdrop including Mt Warning National Park – is also an experience you won’t easily forget.” – Greg Rogers.
www.murwillumbahgolfclub.com.au
69. MOLLYMOOK GC – Hilltop Course
Mollymook, New South Wales
DOWN 1
Judge’s comments: “This is certainly one of the must-play courses for any golfer visiting the NSW South Coast. While I found the greens great to putt on, I thought the kikuyu fairways were easily the equal of what you might find on some private courses in Sydney.” – Joe Thomas.
“As the name Hilltop might suggest, a round here really gets the cardiovascular system working hard. But it is the holes with the most elevation change – like the downhill right-to-left sweeping par-4 10th or the 500-metre rollercoaster ride on the par-5 13th – you will enjoy most.” – Charles Thomas.
68. RICH RIVER GC – East Course
Moama, New South Wales
UP 14
Judge’s comments: “The redesign of several holes on the East Course are striking and have improved the golfing experience as well as the visual appeal. Moving the 16th green to bring the water into play has made for a much better hole, while the wider and more playable par-4 17th is now a terrific hole.” – Graham Brady.
“I really like the redesigned holes, like the 6th, 8th, 16th and 17th, but it was the higher standard of the fairway and green presentation that impressed on my most recent visit.” – Lucas Andrews.
67. COOLANGATTA & TWEED HEADS GC – West Course
Tweed Heads South, New South Wales
UP 7
Judge’s comments: “The West Course is now seeing the benefits nearly four years on from the conversion of all its greens to TifEagle Bermuda grass. The ‘new’ greens are a joy to putt on remarkably smooth when you consider the amount of foot traffic they get.” – Gavin Hill.
“The West Course is ageing like a good bottle of red … just keeps getting better year-on-year.” – Brendan James.
66. YARRAWONGA MULWALA RESORT GC – Lake Course
Mulwala, New South Wales
UP 3
Judge’s comments: “The Lakes course jumped into our ranking in 2015 and has improved in each of the four biennial listings since that debut appearance. While there have been minor changes to the course in that time, it is the improved conditioning in that time which has impressed.” – Brendan James.
“I get the sense Yarrawonga’s Lake Course was underrated for some time and the golfer’s grapevine has been slow to react. But there is no doubt it is a better presented layout than it was half a dozen years ago and this definitely brings out the best in the Peter Thomson and Mike Wolveridge design.” – Joseph Baker.
65. BALLARAT GC
Ballarat, Victoria
UP 2
Judge’s comments: “Ballarat is probably unlucky not to have climbed higher in this ranking but there have been some big moves from other courses in this section of the list. In early 2022, I visited the course for the seventh time since it was extensively redesigned by Peter Thomson and Ross Perrett and was struck by the turf quality right across the property. Firm, tight-knit fairways leading into well-manicured greens left no room for blaming a dodgy lie or bad bounce. I expect Ballarat will continue to rise in the ranking after its current program of bunker renovations is complete.” – Brendan James.
64. CYPRESS LAKES RESORT
Pokolbin, New South Wales
UP 2
Judge’s comments: “Here is a course that was seemingly destined not to feature in this ranking again when it dropped out of the Top-100 back in 2011 when it received no votes from our judges. It crept back into the ranking at No.97 five years ago and has improved with every ranking since. Why?
“There are several reasons but perhaps the most important has been a huge investment in the maintenance of the course, which has returned to its former glory. Secondly, after years of chopping and changing the routing, the owners have settled on the right hole sequencing, which builds a round to a wonderful climax across the closing holes.” – Brendan James.
63. PORTARLINGTON GC
Portarlington, Victoria
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “Portarlington is a little slice of the Melbourne Sandbelt on the peninsula, with visually attractive and intimidating bunkering as well as five-star quality couch fairways being the standout features of the layout. I’ll be back to play here again.” – Paul Wilson.
“Overlooked and underrated for several years, this Bellarine Peninsula gem makes its debut appearance in the Top-100 Public Access Courses ranking. Once you have picked your jaw off the floor over the quality of the fairways and greens, take a closer look at the design as there are some seriously good holes here. In fact, the closing six holes are worth the cost of the green fee alone.” – Brendan James.
62. KOOINDAH WATERS GC
Wyong, New South Wales
DOWN 2
Judge’s comments: “This is a strategic layout where trouble in the form of wetlands and bunkers can be found scattered across the layout. I do like the fact this Ross Watson’s design gets you to think about all your shot and club options as to avoid getting into trouble with a slight mis-hit.” – Daniel O’Keefe.
“Kooindah Waters is not a particularly long course and I’m not a particularly long hitter. So the forced water carries on holes like the par-3 2nd, par-5 8th, par-4 9th and semi-island par-3 17th holes make this layout especially difficult.” – Susan Johnson.
61. COOLANGATTA & TWEED HEADS GC – River Course
Tweed Heads South, New South Wales
UP 2
Judge’s comments: “I got change from $50 for a weekday round on the River Course, which makes it hands down the best value round of golf on the Gold Coast. The layout is tight in parts so there is a real premium on accuracy.” – Tristan Holmes.
“In 2017, the River Course was No.76 in this public access list but the redesign tweaks of recent years have seen this beautiful par-72 continue to rise through the ranks. The River layout is a thinking golfer’s course with good strategy, rather than power-hitting, required to navigate the many doglegging holes encountered during the round.” – Brendan James.
60. LEONGATHA GC
Leongatha South, Victoria
UP 5
Judge’s comments: “I had seen so much good banter about Leongatha on social media I had to go and see it for myself and it lived up to all the hype. Vern Morcom’s creation, with his trademark doglegging holes, is a course offering a lot of fun shots in a serene, Aussie countryside setting. The best holes, in my opinion, are those – like the short par-4 2nd followed by the even shorter par-4 3rd – where he has taken full advantage of the change in elevation and added a dogleg to boot.” – Lucas Andrews.
“Leongatha made its national ranking debut in this magazine back in 2013. Most of our readers living outside of Victoria’s Gippsland region had never heard of it. Now, 10 years on, devoted golfers are making the trek from far and wide to see what all the fuss is about.” – Brendan James.
“Plans to rebuild greens and remodel parts of the course to better fit Morcom’s original design proposals will only see Leongatha climb higher towards a spot in the top half of this ranking.” – James Walsh.
59. PALM MEADOWS
Carrara, Queensland
UP 3
Judge’s comments: “Palm Meadows is in a much better place than it was a decade ago, for example, it has added some presentation polish to its bunkering and fairways making it really grow in my estimation.” – Joe Thomas.
“Every time I go to the Gold Coast I have to play Palm Meadows and try to emulate the likes of Greg Norman, Curtis Strange and Rodger Davis from the Palm Meadows Cup days by driving a direct line across the lake on the par-5 18th hole. Sadly, I’m not getting any younger and my drives are getting shorter but it’s fun to try nonetheless.” – Graham Brady.
58. NOOSA SPRINGS RESORT
Noosa Heads, Queensland
NO CHANGE
Judge’s comments: “This idyllic resort course offers beautiful surrounds, while Graham Papworth’s design walks that fine line of challenging better players and not alienating high handicappers or casual golfers by being too brutal.” – Gavin Hill.
“I’ve never encountered a round at Noosa Springs where the condition can be questioned. In terms of the design, the stretch of holes from the par-3 4th to the long par-4 7th get the heart racing as you are faced with a range of demanding shots with trouble lurking close to the best playing line.” – Matthew Greig.
57. FLINDERS GC
Flinders, Victoria
UP 15
Judge’s comments: “Flinders’ huge jump in the rankings this year is long overdue considering the late great Peter Thomson was speaking of Flinders in glowing terms back in the 1950s and 60s.” – Brendan James.
“In a golf saturated area like Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, Flinders has escaped some of the hype that surrounds most of the courses on the western side of the peninsula. But it deserves more acclaim simply because it’s a bloody great course.” – James Walsh.
56. ROSEBUD CC – South Course
Rosebud, Victoria
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “Rosebud’s South Course has long played second fiddle to the adjoining North Course but design upgrades have narrowed the great divide that once existed. The South might cover flatter, less interesting terrain but it boasts plenty of fun holes with interesting green complexes.” – John Blackwell.
“The South Course is much improved, and I would recommend playing this fine layout in the morning, grabbing a bite of lunch and heading out on the North Course in the afternoon.” – Phil Nicholls.
55. JOONDALUP RESORT – Dune/Lake Course
Connolly, Western Australia
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “It is testament to the quality of the golf at Joondalup that all three of its 18-hole combinations appear in this ranking for the fifth consecutive time. The Dune/Lake Course arguably has more dramatic up and downhill shots than the
other combinations and, therefore, makes club selection a real challenge on this layout.” – Stephen Jackson.
“The superior conditioning of Joondalup’s fairways and greens is a common thread across all the courses, but the combination of holes on the Dune/Lake Course seem to work well together. I played the Dune nine first and then the Lake, with its grandstand finish in front of the resort beside the lake and loved it.” – Ken Robinson.
54. THE COAST GC
Little Bay, New South Wales
UP 3
Judge’s comments: “It doesn’t get any better than playing alongside the cliffs with million-dollar ocean views early and late in the round at The Coast. The 180-metre 4th hole, demanding a tee shot over the rocky shoreline, is, in my opinion, one of the best par-3s in the country.” – Hamish Walker.
“Every time I visit The Coast I find some aspect of the course is better than it was before. The presentation of the layout, particularly the putting surfaces, is one area that has improved markedly in recent years.” – Julian Allen.
53. RACV ROYAL PINES RESORT – Green/Gold Course
Ashmore, Queensland
UP 2
Judge’s comments: “There was a feeling among some other judges that after Royal Pines lost the hosting rights for the Australian PGA that the conditioning of the course might drop off in line with less investment to get the layout ‘up’ for a week of championship play. But it would seem the playing surfaces are under less stress and are presented beautifully year-round these days.” – Gavin Hill.
“Whenever I have a critical thought about the course during a round at Royal Pines, I think back to what it was like before Graham Marsh’s redesign and am thankful for the changes, especially those made to the green complexes.” – Bernard Watson.
52. BLACK BULL
Yarrawonga, Victoria
UP 1
Judge’s comments: “Black Bull made its debut in the Top-100 Public Access Courses ranking in 2017 and has reached its highest mark in the list just six years on. The Peter Thomson and Ross Perrett-designed layout challenges for having for the best greens anywhere along the Murray River, while the much talked about ‘Bull Ring’ corner of the course is a real highlight.” – Brendan James.
www.silverwoodsyarrawonga.com.au
51. EYNESBURY
Eynesbury, Victoria
DOWN 4
Judge’s comments: “The full length of Eynesbury at 6,577 metres from the tips makes it one of the longest public access courses in the country. But designer Graham Marsh included four teeing grounds in his creation, leaving it up to each golfer as to how much of a challenge they wish to undertake.” – Graham Brady.
“Eynesbury is a long trek, especially off the back markers, but ironically some of its best holes are its short par-4s and all the par-3s. The 312-metre par-4 13th is a terrific short hole which I’m sure tempts bigger hitters in taking on the carry over the creek short of the green as they search for a chip and putt birdie.” – James Walsh.
50. TWIN WATERS GC
Twin Waters, Queensland
UP 6
Judge’s comments: “This Peter Thomson and Mike Wolveridge design just seems to keep getting better. In all the years I’ve been visiting there to play, I’ve never left feeling disappointed but my last two rounds there, in 2021 and 2022, the course was in outstanding condition.” – Toby Greenwood.
“Always such a lovely place to play, especially the loop of front nine holes around the lake.” – Felicity Chapman.
49. ALBANY GC
Albany, Western Australia
UP 24
Judge’s comments: “For any golfer from the eastern states, Albany is a long way to go for a round of golf. But having made that journey I can thoroughly recommend you try it yourself. Albany is such a beautiful, natural course with the holes rising and falling across the undulating rows of dunes. Fantastic!” – Hamish Walker.
“The moment you walk off the 18th green, you will want to dart back to the 1st tee and do it all again.” – Scott Matthews.
“Albany is pure old school links golf. The next time I go I’m going to pack the hickories to take the experience to the next level.” – Lucas Andrews.
48. EASTLAKE GC
Daceyville, New South Wales
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “Smart vegetation management during the past few years
has improved the turf quality on many holes and taken Eastlake to the next level.” – Joe Thomas.
“Dramatic terrain coupled with a good supply of interesting holes makes any round
at Eastlake a fun one. The course is also home to some fantastic par-3s with the relatively ‘new’ downhill 17th beside the lake a far more enjoyable challenge than the long one-shotter played from hilltop-to-hilltop that it replaced.” – Christian Harris.
“Every change that has been made at Eastlake in recent times has been well considered and executed, with the results being a far better course.” – Alex Georgiou.
47. MORNINGTON GC
Mornington, Victoria
UP 17
Judge’s comments: “The redesign of several holes during the past few years by course designer Ben Davey (Contour Golf Design) has certainly elevated what was, in my opinion, an underrated Mornington Peninsula layout. The cliff-top par-3 19th, the remodelled 9th hole and the new green complex on the closing hole are great additions to this wonderful course.” – Hamish Walker.
“The impressive changes at Mornington have continued this year as part of the club’s masterplan with redesign work being carried out on the par-4 6th and the iconic par-3 7th holes. Combined with some already memorable holes, like the newish 19th and the par-4 15th, a round at Mornington has one highlight after another.” – James Walsh.
46. YARRAWONGA MULWALA RESORT GC – Murray Course
Mulwala, New South Wales
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “This is my favourite course on the Murray. The setting encapsulates everything that is to be loved about the Murray region, from the wildlife to the majestic river gums, which can all be experienced in an afternoon walking an interesting and fun golf course.” – Joseph Baker.
“I’ve played at Yarrawonga many times during the past few decades and I can’t recall the Murray Course being in better condition than it was when I played here in late 2021. The couch fairways were dreamy to hit off and the greens were equally as good to putt on.” – Craig Smart.
“The Murray Course has the lion’s share of thought-provoking and fun holes to be found on any course along the great river.” – Matthew Greig.
45. BELMONT G&BC
Belmont, New South Wales
UP 3
Judge’s comments: “A superb seaside course that has been enhanced with the redesign of several back nine holes in recent years. The completely exposed holes starting at the par-3 13th through to the little par-3 16th is an amazing sequence of holes, with great golf paired with spectacular views accompanying very shot.” – Joe Thomas.
“A truly underrated golfing experience.” – Nikki Scott.
44. RACV CAPE SCHANCK RESORT
Cape Schanck, Victoria
UP 5
Judge’s comments: “My first experience of Cape Schanck was only recently, and I left wishing I had made the trouble to get there sooner. What a fun layout! The bunkering is big and bold, the fairways tumble and rise across the dramatic landscape and the greens are full of their own twists and turns, not unlike the neighbouring Old Course at The National GC.” – Anthony Smith.
“Cape Schanck is further proof that in his prime, course architect Robert Trent Jones Jnr was one of the game’s most creative designers, capable of extracting fun, strategic and interesting golf from any site.” – Charles Thomas.
43. FEDERAL GC
Red Hill, ACT
UP 2
Judge’s comments: “The conversion of its fairways to Santa Ana couch was a turning point for Federal. Not only is the quality of the turf superb, but it enhances the way you play the course. Now you have to consider how the ball will react when it hits the sloping ground, and you have to select the correct club and aim for the ideal shot shape on its many doglegging holes.” – Lucas Andrews.
“If you were magically dropped on any tee on the back nine you couldn’t imagine you were just five minutes’ drive from the back door of Parliament House. The views to the Brindabella Ranges from this high side of the course are memorable.” – Nikki Scott.
42. MAROOCHY RIVER GC
Bli Bli, Queensland
UP 12
Judge’s comments: “The rise of Graham Marsh’s design continues, having debuted in the 2019 Top-100 Public Access Courses ranking at No.65, and now reaching its highest spot since opening for play in 2016. The layout has become very popular on the back of the risk-and-reward strategy for players of all standards, while its conditioning is rarely under par.” – Brendan James.
“Maroochy River has matured beautifully in the short number of years it has been open for play. The dynamic green complexes are second to none on the Sunshine Coast.” – Alistair Cameron.
www.maroochyrivergolfclub.com.au
41. TASMANIA GC
Cambridge, Tasmania
UP 3
Judge’s comments: “A mainstay of this ranking for more than a decade, Tasmania has improved dramatically in recent years on the back of a tree removal program that has opened up areas of the course and improved the quality of the playing surfaces as a result. The improvement has not gone unnoticed as Tasmania reaches its highest ever position in this ranking.” – Brendan James.
40. PACIFIC DUNES GC
Medowie, New South Wales
DOWN 2
Judge’s comments: “A heavily tree-lined front nine gives way to a more suburban feel on the inward half. Despite the different settings, the quality of the golf doesn’t suffer.” – Anthony Smith.
“On paper, Pacific Dunes is not an overly long golf course but it feels longer than it actually is because taking driver on every par-4 and par-5 is not always the best option, where a fairway wood or iron is. The fact the design makes you think on every shot, is a big tick from me.” – Joe Thomas.
39. MURRAY DOWNS G&CC
Murray Downs, New South Wales
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “Murray Downs has long held the claim of being the No.1 course on the Murray River and that is likely to be the case for some time to come as it cracks a spot inside the top-40 of this ranking for the first time.” – Brendan James.
“Murray Downs is a terrific design that presents beautifully year-round. There are plenty of highlights during a round – most involve avoiding a hazard – but, in my opinion, nothing beats the water carry tee shot on the par-3 5th or the downhill second approach into the par-4 17th.” – Peter Anton.
38. MT COMPASS
Mt Compass, South Australia
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “To play a round today at Mt Compass and take note of the quality of the design and the conditioning it is hard to fathom this course received not one single vote in this ranking in 2013 before making its debut in 2019. In the years in between, a new owner took over the reins and investment in the course was immediate and effective. Now it’s among the best public access courses in the country.” – Brendan James.
37. SUN CITY CC
Yanchep, Western Australia
DOWN 1
Judge’s comments: “Sun City’s dramatic entry and then rise in this ranking after a spectacular redesign by OCCM (Ogilvy, Clayton, Cocking & Mead) a few years back has stalled … for now. The club is keen to makeover the remaining holes to completely fulfil the course’s great potential. When that work is done, following the same design philosophy that binds the newest holes together, Sun City’s climb in this rank will continue.” – Brendan James.
“There’s no doubting the redesign that started at Sun City nearly a decade ago transformed the layout. And it wasn’t all about building new greens and tees. Selective tree removal on the corner of doglegs, for example, has made this layout a much fairer course for all players.” – Stephen Jackson.
36. WARRNAMBOOL GC
Warrnambool, Victoria
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “Great presentation and unique holes played up, down and through massive dunes have managed to propel the once relatively unknown Warrnambool layout into the top echelon of Australia’s public accessible courses. But by the time you reach the 16th tee the very best of the course is behind you. If the closing trio of holes offered a little more interest in terms of strategy and/or visual appeal beyond a strip cut fairway, I could see Warrnambool pushing for a top-20 spot on this list.” – Brendan James.
“I’ve played golf at plenty of places across Australia and there are several holes at Warrnambool you just won’t see anywhere else.” – Lucas Andrews.
35. LAKELANDS GC
Merrimac, Queensland
DOWN 1
Judge’s comments: “The high-standard of presentation at Lakelands has been a trademark aspect of the layout since it opened 25 years ago. While the playing surfaces remain very good, they no longer have the title of being the best on the Gold Coast, but they’re on the podium.” – Gavin Hill.
“Lakelands has arguably the best collection of par-3s on the Gold Coast, with the heavily-bunkered and waterfall-flanked 14th being the standout.” – Scott Matthews.
34. PACIFIC HARBOUR G&CC
Banksia Beach, Queensland
DOWN 6
Judge’s comments: “Pacific Harbour is a wonderful course and Ross Watson needs to be congratulated for the holes he created from what I believe was a pretty flat piece of terrain. But with each return visit, there seems to be more and more houses lining just a little bit more of the course, taking away from the ambience you used to feel playing here in its early days.” – Christian Harris.
“I love Pacific Harbour’s wild bunkering and dramatic greenscapes, while the wave-like roll of the fairways have a linksy look about them.” – Debbie Walker.
33. JOONDALUP RESORT – Quarry/Lake Course
Connolly, Western Australia
UP 6
Judge’s comments: “The Quarry/Lake routing is widely regarded as the second best of the Joondalup combinations, with the less dramatic Lake nine nicely complementing the off-the-charts Quarry nine.” – Stephen Jackson.
“There are few more spectacular nines, without the ocean being visible, than
the Quarry. Jaw-dropping holes, like the par-4 2nd and par-3 3rd, are hard to forget.”
– Brett Oldham.
32. STONECUTTERS RIDGE GC
Colebee, New South Wales
UP 1
Judge’s comments: “Greg Norman and Bob Harrison’s final major design project together is an absolute beauty. It offers contrasting nines, with the outward half being generally flatter with wider playing corridors, while the back nine covers the most undulating terrain and asks different questions of your skill. Put simply, Stonecutters is a well-rounded, fun course to play.” – Joe Thomas.
31. LINKS LADY BAY
Normanville, South Australia
UP 20
Judge’s comments: “Links Lady Bay is one of the most improved layouts in Australia. Much of this improvement relates to its presentation, which is significantly better than it was half a dozen years ago. All the playing surfaces are very good, but it is the greater consistency of the bunker conditioning that is noticeably improved.” – Brendan James.
“This is no longer an underrated design and quite rightly is gaining wider praise for how good it really is.” – Phil Nicholls.
“Lady Bay has evolved as a diamond in the rough. It is a terrific links course with greens and surrounds that you might expect at a private club. My only criticism would be the location of some of the cart paths, particularly those weaving between bunkers.” – Anthony Smith.
30. THE VINTAGE GC
Pokolbin, New South Wales
DOWN 3
Judge’s comments: “Another design from the Greg Norman and Bob Harrison stable created in the early 2000s, with their trademark take on Sandbelt bunkering and interesting green complexes. The Vintage never fails to deliver.” – Hamish Walker.
“I have enjoyed every round I have played at The Vintage. But I get the impression the presentation has dipped a little in recent years. For example, there are several water hazards on the back nine choked with really high reeds that look unkempt and, if cleared, would enhance the look of the holes.” – Alex Georgiou.
29. SANDRINGHAM GL
Sandringham, Victoria
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “What a transformation! The OCM (Ogilvy, Cocking & Mead) redesign has produced a ‘real’ Melbourne Sandbelt gem that everyone can play. The accessibility to all was part of the design philosophy, with each hole offering a range of playing options depending on your skill.” – Lucas Andrews.
“Sandy Links is such a fun course. It’s not long and demanding, it’s just fun, especially on and around the greens.” – Richard O’Reilly.
“A first-class strategic course, Sandy Links mimics the golfing experience to be had elsewhere in the world famous Sandbelt.” – Brendan James.
28. LONG REEF GC
Collaroy, New South Wales
UP 3
Judge’s comments: “Laid out across the Long Reef headland, it is a given that you will be seduced by the setting and its ocean views that accompany every shot.” – Susan Johnson.
“Long Reef has some of the best poa greens in the country. I can’t recall ever leaving there thinking the putting surfaces were less than superb.” – Hamish Walker.
“There are some funky holes at ‘Longy’, like the dogleg left par-4 5th threaded between two water hazards, but they are offset by the cool ones like the downhill par-4s played from the top of the headland.” – Sam Brooking.
27. ROSEBUD CC – North Course
Rosebud, Victoria
UP 34
Judge’s comments: “The North Course has always been a very good layout but
the remodelling changes made in recent times, as well as consistently good conditioning, have raised its standing among the courses to play on the Mornington Peninsula.” – James Walsh.
“It’s hard not to be impressed by the redesign work OCM (Ogilvy, Cocking & Mead) has overseen at Rosebud in recent years. The better undulating ground of the North Course was a good canvas to work with and the result is a challenging round with numerous highlights.” – Paul Wilson.
“The design changes of both Rosebud courses have been enhanced further by the great work undertaken by Ian Todd, the former long-time course superintendent at Victoria Golf Club, and his team.” – Nathan Burgess.
26. THE GLADES GC
Robina, Queensland
DOWN 2
Judge’s comments: “Generously wide playing lines, big greens and equally big bunker schemes tell the Glades story. That said, making par or better is a stiff challenge if you find yourself out of position from tee-to-green.” – Gavin Hill.
“Of all the Gold Coast courses I like how The Glades is allowed to play firm and fast (when the weather warrants). This brings all the strategic elements of Greg Norman and Bob Harrison’s design into play.” – Daniel O’Keefe.
25. SANCTUARY LAKES GC
Point Cook, Victoria
UP 5
Judge’s comments: “I recently saw a photo of Greg Norman surveying the site for Sanctuary Lakes before any construction started. It was a completely flat, desolate salt pan and far from ideal for golf. The rolling fairways, wonderful green complexes, expansive bunkering and birdlife-rich wetlands that lie there now, a few decades on, is surely evidence of one of the great transformations in the history of building golf courses in this country.” – Hamish Walker.
24. KALGOORLIE GC
Karlkurla, Western Australia
UP 8
Judge’s comments: “Kalgoorlie is the epitome of everything you might expect about outback golf.” – Scott Matthews.
“This is Graham Marsh’s finest design work. Strategically it is terrific, while visually it is absolutely stunning. It is a long course from the back markers so make sure you
pick the tee that is best-suited to your ability.” – Terry Anderson.
“Kalgoorlie’s greens – in terms of shape and slope – are crazy good.” – Deborah Hill.
www.kalgoorliegolfcourse.com.au
23. THIRTEENTH BEACH GL – Creek Course
Barwon Heads, Victoria
UP 3
Judge’s comments: “There is plenty to like about the Creek Course but the highlight for me is the green complexes, which are all very different and a lot of fun.” – Joseph Baker.
“The greens and their surrounds on the Creek Course are brilliant. The bunkering, cut tight into the putting surface, as well as close mown swales and mounds suggest designers Tony Cashmore and Sir Nick Faldo were heavily influenced by the best aspects of the Melbourne Sandbelt.” – Lucas Andrews.
22. MEADOW SPRINGS G&CC
Meadow Springs, Western Australia
DOWN 1
Judge’s comments: “Meadow Springs’ consistently high standard of conditioning coupled with Robert Trent Jones Jnr’s outstanding, strategic design ensures another ranking result among the top quarter of this country’s best public access courses.” – Brendan James.
“So many of Robert Trent Jones Jnr’s designs have hard, dramatic lines but Meadow Springs is much different. I really like how the fairways rise and fall ever so gently and the greens have far more subtle breaks than what you might find at Joondalup or Cape Schanck, for example.” – Richard O’Reilly.
21. CURLEWIS GC
Curlewis, Victoria
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “This Bellarine Peninsula layout continues its climb in this rank, which coincides with the ongoing design fine-tuning – under the guidance of Mike Clayton – it’s presentation and the overall golfing experience. I’ve never been a fan of club’s flipping the nines, but Curlewis’ choice to do so actually works as, in my opinion, its best holes now come on the inward half and play a more important role in the outcome of your round.” – Brendan James.
“There have been some fantastic changes made here in recent years. The best work has come on what is now the back nine, with improvements to holes like the 10th, 11th and the short par-4 18th hole. Throw in the always interesting 12th and you have all the elements for an unforgettable round.” – Hamish Walker.
20. LINKS HOPE ISLAND
Hope Island, Queensland
UP 2
Judge’s comments: “Hope Island celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2023 and has rarely looked better in its past three decades. The ‘new’ short, semi-island par-3 9th hole has added to the quality of Hope Island’s collection of one-shotters, despite being a little out of place on a ‘links’ course.” – Brendan James.
“Any golfer heading to the Gold Coast must include Hope Island in their itinerary. It’s challenging and fun golf on five-star fairways and greens. What more could you want?” – Gavin Hill.
19. THE CUT
Dawesville, Western Australia
DOWN 2
Judge’s comments: “The Cut is home to the best back nine in Western Australia. These holes through dramatic oceanside dunes are stunning and a joy to play.” – Ken Robinson.
“When you walk up onto the 12th tee here, with the expanse of the Indian Ocean off to your right and a semi-blind drive facing you in front, you can feel your pulse race.” – Christian Harris.
18. BOUGLE RUN
Bridport, Tasmania
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “Barnbougle’s third course – a 14-hole layout with 12 par-3s and two par-4s – makes its debut in this ranking. Some might think it a controversial inclusion, but I’ll be willing to wager they haven’t played the course, which offers one fun shot after another.” – Brendan James.
“Take a bow Bill Coore. Bougle Run is brilliant.” – Susan Johnson.
“Overwhelming proof exists that a course doesn’t have to be 18 holes, a par-72 and more than 6,000 metres to be considered challenging and enjoyable … to be considered a course good enough to be ranked. Bougle Run is that proof.” – Joe Thomas.
17. ST. MICHAEL’S GC
Little Bay, New South Wales
UP 6
Judge’s comments: “The joint host of this month’s Australian Amateur Championship has just completed the last of a long list of recent design changes – with the remodelling of the par-3 5th and par-5 7th – that have all improved the already unforgettable St. Micks.” – Joe Thomas.
“St. Michael’s is the best public access course in Sydney by a mile. There are few more demanding courses anywhere when the wind blows, which is a big part of the fun of playing here.” – Brendan James.
16. MOONAH LINKS – Open Course
Fingal, Victoria
UP 4
Judge’s comments: “Designed by Peter Thomson to be a tough test for competitors in the Australian Open, the Open Course meets that brief. But from the forward tees it is thankfully a softer challenge … at least when the wind isn’t blowing. Its presentation can never be questioned.” – Bernard Watson.
“The Open Course is beautifully expansive from tee-to-green with plenty of scattered bunkering adding caution to your progress.” – Jan Richardson.
15. NAROOMA GC
Narooma, New South Wales
UP 3
Judge’s comments: “This NSW South Coast course has been entrenched in the top half of this ranking for more than a decade but with more judges sampling its delights in recent times it has edged up to its highest position thus far. And it’s not surprising. Narooma’s oceanside location is home to a host of memorable holes, but it is the quality of its inland holes that also impress.” – Brendan James.
“One round at Narooma is all that is required to fall in love with this place.” – Nikki Scott.
14. MOONAH LINKS – Legends Course
Fingal, Victoria
UP 2
Judge’s comments: “The Legends Course is the perfect foil for the neighbouring Open Course, which was created to be tough and uncompromising. Legends, designed by Ross Perrett, on the other hand is more playable for golfers of all standards. Laid out on incredibly good golfing land, Legends’ holes weave across the landscape like they were always meant to be there.” – Hamish Walker.
13. HAMILTON ISLAND GC
Dent Island, Queensland
UP 2
Judge’s comments: “What a stunner. It provides one drama charged tee shot after another with challenging approach shots in between. This is exciting golf in the middle of the Whitsundays.” – Craig Smart.
“The Hamilton Island course is an engineering feat unmatched by any course ever built in this country. It does have its design flaws – like the landform-forced distance between some greens and the next tee – but the holes themselves are exciting, while the views compensate for any poor shot-making on the day.” – Lucas Andrews.
www.hamiltonislandgolfclub.com.au
12. PORTSEA GC
Portsea, Victoria
UP 7
Judge’s comments: “Elevation changes across the layout put a premium on quality shot-making on its superb collection of short par-4s and challenging par-3s. What it lacks in length it makes up for with strategic challenges throughout.” – James Walsh.
“Portsea has succeeded in reaching its highest-ever mark in this Top-100 Public Access Courses ranking. It is worthy acclaim for a course that is consistently well-presented and boasts a diverse collection of natural holes.” – Brendan James.
11. JOONDALUP RESORT – Quarry/Dune Course
Connolly, Western Australia
UP 2
Judge’s comments: “Presented with this site Robert Trent Jones Jnr went into creative overdrive with the Quarry/Dune Course and the result is the most dramatic inland layout in the country.” – Stephen Jackson.
“With most of the holes routed around an abandoned limestone quarry, there is ‘wow’ factor at every turn but the string of holes from the Quarry 2nd to the 5th, and then the Dune 3rd, 4th and 5th, are another step above.” – Matthew Greig.
10. BROOKWATER G&CC
Brookwater, Queensland
UP 2
Judge’s comments: “Brookwater used to feel quite claustrophobic at times during the round but a tree removal program (and some development along its edges) in key areas of the course has made the layout more playable for more players.” – Gavin Hill.
“Greg Norman and Bob Harrison’s heralded Brookwater has cracked the top-10 of this ranking for the first time, which is testament to the quality of the renovation work of the greens and bunkers a few years ago.” – Brendan James.
9. PORT FAIRY GL
Port Fairy, Victoria
UP 5
Judge’s comments: “The course widely recognised as offering the best value golf in Australia ($59, Sunday to Friday) just became even better value, surging into the top-10 of this rank for the first time. Minor changes across the layout (and there will be more
to come) just keep improving this links.” – Brendan James.
“Mike Clayton’s design advice to Port Fairy over the years has never missed the mark. Every change they’ve made, from clearing vegetation to remodelling bunkers, has worked.” – Hamish Walker.
“Golf across unspoiled dunes, ocean views and fun holes. Mic drop!” – Julie Stokes.
8. LONSDALE LINKS
Port Lonsdale, Victoria
NOT RANKED
Judge’s comments: “What a brilliant addition to the Australian golfing landscape. Wonderful!” – Paul Wilson.
“Lonsdale Links makes its debut in the Top-100 Public Access Courses ranking having already gained a reputation as one of Australia’s most fun courses.” – Brendan James.
“The outstanding highlight at Lonsdale Links is the design of the greens, which are large and contain plenty of contours, tiers and some subtle slopes. Some of the greens might even be considered quirky, but, on the whole, they are just fun to hit into and putt on.” – Nathan Burgess.
7. THE DUNES GL
Rye, Victoria
UP 1
Judge’s comments: “The Dunes has been in play now for 25 years and is looking great and playing even better. The firm rolling terrain continues to excite and impress from the opening tee shot.” – John Blackwell.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s blowing a gale or completely still, any round at The Dunes is a load of fun. With an incredibly diverse range of holes – from thought-provoking short par-4s to long, brutal par-5s and intense par-3s – The Dunes should be on your bucket list.” – Joe Thomas.
6. THIRTEENTH BEACH GL – Beach Course
Barwon Heads, Victoria
UP 1
Judge’s comments: “This is Tony Cashmore’s finest design work in an acclaimed career. The holes rolling within the dunes nearest to the beach are incredible and worth the affordable green fee alone.” – James Walsh.
“This modern take on links golf is an absolute wonder. I like how Cashmore incorporated some different green shapes, including punchbowls, and sizes into his terrific layout.” – Anthony Smith.
5. OCEAN DUNES
King Island, Tasmania
UP 1
Judge’s comments: “What a course. The opening four holes of Graeme Grant’s design are absolutely world class. In fact, the par-3 4th – playing from one rocky shoreline outcrop over the swelling sea to a wide green on another rock shelf – is one of this country’s most spectacular one-shot holes.” – Lucas Andrews.
“This is such a dramatic course. From the stunners that hug the shoreline (how good is the long par-3 10th hole?) to the rolling inland holes, Ocean Dunes offers an unforgettable golfing experience.” – Christian Harris.
“So much is made about Ocean Dunes’ stunning holes, and for good reason. But I was really impressed with the fescue fairways, which are brilliant to hit off.” – Daniel O’Keefe.
4. ST ANDREWS BEACH
Fingal, Victoria
NO CHANGE
Judge’s comments: “World renowned course designer Tom Doak created this marvellous layout on land he later described is being ‘perfect for golf’. I couldn’t agree more.” – Paul Wilson.
“St Andrews Beach has an incredibly diverse offering of holes that test every facet of your game. Imaginative bunkering lines the journey into equally creative greenscapes that are usually just a continuation of the rolling fairway in front. Standing over a ball 15-foot off a green, with 25 feet to the flag, offers the chance to play four or five different shots with a range of clubs.” – Brendan James.
3. BARNBOUGLE LOST FARM
Bridport, Tasmania
NO CHANGE
Judge’s comments: “Of the top-three courses in this ranking, I suspect Lost Farm is the layout where most golfers, from scratch players to high handicappers, have the most fun. There are so many ways to play each hole, which is a tribute to the creative genius of designer Bill Coore.” – Lucas Andrews.
“Lost Farm is one of those courses you need to play a few times to gain a greater appreciation for its nuances and learning the best spots from which to approach the pin positions of the day. I’m still learning after nearly 20 years of trips to Barnbougle, but my appreciation for this wonder course will never wane.” – Brendan James.
2. BARNBOUGLE DUNES
Bridport, Tasmania
NO CHANGE
Judge’s comments: “The pioneer for what some are calling the second Golden Age of course design in Australia. Tom Doak and Mike Clayton’s amazing creation put Tasmania on the global golfing stage and inspired others to develop world class, affordable golf.” – Alex Georgiou.
“One visit to Barnbougle, and a round on both courses, makes it difficult not to sit back and compare the neighbouring layouts. Dunes is arguably a more testing layout compared with Lost Farm and, in my opinion, has more holes – like the 3rd, 4th, 7th, 12th, 13th, 15th and 17th – that could easily be considered among the world’s best.” – Alistair Cameron.
1. CAPE WICKHAM LINKS
King Island, Tasmania
NO CHANGE
Judge’s comments: “From the moment you walk on Cape Wickham’s 1st tee, you are seduced by the visually spectacular view down the opening fairway and back across the beachside 18th hole. Even when the weather isn’t at its best, you can’t help but be awestruck … then, four hours on, you realise this course doesn’t let up on being stunning for another 17 holes.” – Nikki Scott.
“I reckon you could play this course 100 times and you might hit the same shot with the same club on the same hole once. You could never get bored playing this wonderful addition to the list of the world’s best golf courses.” – Terry Anderson.
“I played Cape Wickham for the first time only recently, having only read reviews and drooled over course images online. Neither did this wonderful course justice. There were so many times when I walked onto the tee and had to soak in the view, and had to try and work out the best way to play the hole, all the while trying to stop my cap from flying off in the wind. What an experience!” – Anthony Smith.
THE JUDGING PANEL
Each of the judges, drawn from the large pool of Golf Australia magazine readers/subscribers, was given specific guidelines about how to rank courses based on a set criteria (see below). Judges were to only rank courses they had seen since December 2020.
Brendan James, Joe Thomas, Hamish Walker, Felicity Chapman, Susan Johnson, Lucas Andrews, Joseph Baker, Nikki Scott, Daniel O’Keefe, Matthew Greig, Jodie Ewart, Graham Brady, Jack Donaldson, Gavin Hill, Paul Wilson, Toby Greenwood, Scott Matthews, Terry Anderson, Alex Georgiou, Craig Smart, Nathan Burgess, John Blackwell, Phil Nicholls, Bernard Watson, Charles Thomas, Richard O’Reilly, James Walsh, Steven Jeffrey, Julian Allen, Sam Brooking, Joseph Kent, Deborah Hill, Christian Harris, Stephen Jackson, Brett Oldham, Ken Robinson, Greg Rogers, Tristan Holmes, Edward Lee, Peter Anton, Jan Richardson, Debbie Walker, Julie Stokes, Anthony Smith, Alistair Cameron.
TOP-100 RANKING CRITERIA
DESIGN (50%)
When ranking a course, judges were advised to ask the following questions to themselves to determine where a course stands in their list.
• Is there a good balance of par-3s, 4s and 5s? Is there good variety?
• Is risk-and-reward a factor on many holes?
• How fair is the course for all players?
• Does the design offer a wide selection of shots bringing any variation of wind direction into play?
• Does the course set-up (mowing lines, rough) complement the design?
• How memorable are individual holes and the course as a whole?
CONDITION (40%)
Things to consider include:
• The overall condition of playing surfaces. Take into consideration elements out of control of course staff like drought, bushfire and flood.
• Are the fairways cut to be well-defined from semi-rough and rough?
• Have the bunkers been well-presented. Is the sand consistent?
VISUAL APPEAL (10%)
In relation to public access courses, visual appeal is an important factor in not only attracting golfers but also getting those same golfers to play the course again and again. Visual appeal makes up the remaining 10 percent. Things to consider include:
• How aesthetically pleasing is the course to look at?
• Are there many holes that have the ‘wow’ factor?
• Does the course bIend well with its surrounds?
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