Port Kembla Golf Club’s transformation into one of Australia’s most innovative golf and recreation destinations has taken a significant step forward, with a Development Application now lodged with Wollongong City Council for the club’s major redevelopment in partnership with Swing Factory.
The redevelopment follows overwhelming support from Wests Illawarra and Port Kembla Golf Club members, who voted in favour of the landmark proposal in 2025.
The proposed development will transform Port Kembla Golf Club into a vibrant community destination. Stage 1 includes a state-of-the-art driving range equipped with Toptracer technology, an architecturally designed 18-hole mini golf course, and pickleball courts. Additional stages of the redevelopment proposal include clubhouse improvements and significant upgrades to golfing infrastructure.
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Wests Illawarra and Port Kembla Golf Club CEO Danny Munk said lodging the Development Application marked an exciting milestone in the project’s journey.
“This is an important step forward in delivering the vision our members supported and creating a facility that will serve the Illawarra community for generations to come,” Munk said.
“Port Kembla Golf Club is already recognised as one of the region’s premier golf courses. This redevelopment will build on that reputation by providing new opportunities for participation, recreation and community connection.
“We’re excited to be progressing this project with Swing Factory and look forward to working through the approval process with Wollongong City Council.
“This redevelopment secures the future of Port Kembla Golf Club while creating a modern destination the whole community can enjoy. With Swing Factory’s proven track record, we’re confident the project will deliver an outstanding experience for members, attract new visitors and create lasting benefits for the Illawarra.”
Designed for golfers and non-golfers alike, the redevelopment will create a vibrant community hub where families, friends, schools, community groups and businesses can connect, play and socialise. It’s also expected to deliver broader economic benefits for the region by attracting visitors from across the Illawarra, Greater Sydney and interstate, while supporting local employment and business opportunities.
Swing Factory CEO Erich Weber said the project would create a unique destination for the region.
“Our vision for Swing Factory at Port Kembla Golf Club is simple: to create a destination that the entire community can enjoy, whether you’re an avid golfer, a first-time player or simply looking for a great place to spend time with family and friends.
“By combining world-class golf technology through Toptracer Range with a vibrant social and recreational atmosphere, we’re looking to build a facility that grows participation in golf, helps golfers improve their game, supports local businesses, attracts visitors to the region and becomes a genuine community asset for generations to come.”
Visit Wollongong general manager Jeremy Wilshire also sees the benefits of Swing Factory opening in the region.
“Swing Factory represents a significant opportunity to strengthen Wollongong’s visitor economy while delivering a high-quality leisure and entertainment destination for both visitors and residents.
“As visitation to the region continues to grow, particularly through the future expansion of the cruise market, attractions like Swing Factory will play an important role in enhancing the visitor experience and broadening the region’s tourism offering.”
Further updates on the redevelopment will be provided as the Development Application progresses through the assessment process. Golf course operations will continue throughout the works, ensuring members and visitors can enjoy uninterrupted play.
*Nick Cutler, chief executive officer of CMMA Digital & Print Pty Ltd – publishers of Australian Golf Digest – is a co-founder of Swing Factory
