Golf facilities set to receive $60m boost

By James Kleeman

Jan 3, 2022

Funding boost: Golf clubs across the Goulburn Valley will be eligible for a new funding package next year. Photo by Megan Fisher

A major investment package for the redevelopment of public and private golf courses and driving ranges across Australia has been announced, with Goulburn Valley clubs able to throw their hands up for a slice of the funding.

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The "PlayGolf’’ initiative will provide a funding boost to modernise facilities and increase participation of active and aspirational golfers across Australia.

The initiative will be spearheaded by Mulpha Australia Limited, one of Australia’s largest real estate development and hospitality groups, with Avid Sports and Golf Australia also partners.

Mulpha chief executive Greg Shaw said in a statement he hoped a revamp of existing golf facilities would encourage more people to take up the sport across the country.

“The PlayGolf Fund partners have a shared goal to encourage more people regardless of age, gender or skill level to play and enjoy golf in a more accessible and entertaining way,” Shaw said.

“In recent years we have seen many traditional public and member golf facilities and driving ranges struggle to find the combination of capital, development capability and specialised operational expertise to transition towards becoming more enticing integrated golf, hospitality and entertainment venues.”

Golf Australia chief executive James Sutherland said in a statement he believed the $60m package could be vital to a resurgence of golf as a sporting and social pursuit as the industry looks to bounce back from the pandemic and extended lockdowns.

“This partnership will provide much-needed capital to invest in golf infrastructure with the opportunity to increase participation by active and aspirational golfers across Australia,” Sutherland said.

“From first timers through to the most experienced of golfers, the social engagement, health benefits and outdoor experience of golf has provided much-needed outdoor entertainment to more and more Australians over the past 18 months.

“I can’t wait to see the ideas and the impact it has on what is already the second-most popular participation sport for adults in the country.”

First round applications to access the $60 million funding package are due by March 31, 2022, with subsequent rounds considered thereafter.

Details on the PlayGolf fund and how to apply can be found at www.playgolffund.com.au