Proposals to cut the 18-hole course that was established in 1941 in half are not new, and similar to the issues faced by so many public golf courses in this country. Many of which have never been busier due to a rise in the game’s popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The concept of turning the annexed holes into playing fields and parkland, one that has seen much local debate and a previous public vote.

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Today, Anthony Albanese MP, the Leader of the Australian Labor party and Member for Grayndler and Linda Burney MP, the Shadow Minister for Families and Social Services and Member for Barton threw their support behind the beleaguered club with the following statement.

Statement on Marrickville Golf Course

Labor opposes cutting Marrickville Golf Course in half.

The plan of management proposed today by the Inner West Council Planning Department fails to acknowledge the most important issue – our residents.

Marrickville Golf Club is the custodian of one of the most affordable and accessible 18-hole golf courses in Australia.

It is used by the local community by golfers, dog walkers, pedestrians and bio-diversity volunteers, alike.

For decades the Clubhouse has supported local sporting organisations and local services.  It has been an institution since the 1940s.

The health crisis in which we are now living has only reiterated the need for community spirit, open green spaces, and affordable leisure activities.

This proposal risks the sustainability of the Marrickville Golf Club and the spirit of the Inner West.

Whether the statement and support deliver the desired result is yet to be seen, but the willingness of one of the leaders of one of the nation’s major political parties getting behind public golf in his own backyard is certainly a positive one from those invested in and who love the game.

Image: Adrian Logue.