Great golf facilities where you can jump the queue and join right now.
Welcome to 2023, where golf memberships come in all shapes and sizes.
No longer are we bound to traditional seven-day memberships and exorbitant initiation fees, though they are still prevalent if you look hard enough.
Fear not, those post-COVID “horror” stories of membership waiting lists being as long as the pandemic itself are, in most parts, greatly exaggerated.
As the warmer weather finally sets in, we examined the wonderful array of playing options out there, both on and off the course, because, well, all golf is golf, to quote Golf Australia boss James Sutherland.
If swinging indoors is more your persuasion, you can have just that thanks to a host of new golf-simulator facilities. If you prefer to bash countless buckets of balls at the range than walk 18 holes, there’s a membership option for you, too.
Here’s a small sample of what’s available right now, waiting lists be damned!
Brookwater Golf & Country Club
Elevate your golf experience with a Brookwater Golf & Country Club membership. Enjoy the meticulously manicured Greg Norman-designed championship course, top-notch facilities and, importantly, a friendly community. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a passionate beginner, Brookwater’s memberships provide access to excellence and create lifelong connections. Visit brookwater.com.au for full details.
Mount Isa Golf Club
Mount Isa Golf Club, located in the picturesque outback of Queensland, offers golf enthusiasts a unique and challenging experience on the only grassed greens in north-west Queensland. Nestled amid rugged landscapes, this 18-hole layout showcases stunning desert vistas and red-earth fairways. New members can expect a welcoming atmosphere and country hospitality, not to mention some well-maintained greens. The club also prides itself on its clubhouse dining facilities, perfect for post-game relaxation. Call (07) 4743 2371.
Five Iron Golf
INDOORS
Five Iron Golf re-shaped Manhattan’s golf culture and is now re-shaping Melbourne’s. Growing from its original Manhattan location to a re-imagined, high-tech, inclusive urban golf experience for golfers and non-golfers alike, Five Iron Golf is for everyone. Powered by TrackMan Golf technology, the Five Iron experience allows you to use tour-validated data that is trusted by world-class players, coaches and fitters alike. From as little as $30 per week you can join the most inclusive club in golf and practise how you want, play how you want and party how you want! Check out how they are growing the game in Melbourne, as well as New York City, Singapore, India and other new and exciting locations soon to be announced worldwide. Join the most inclusive club in golf by becoming a 5i member at fiveirongolf.au
Yarra Bend Golf
OFF-COURSE
Are you ready to take your golf game to the next level? Unlock your potential with Yarra Bend Golf’s 365 Uncapped driving range membership. This unique membership offers you the ultimate opportunity to enjoy year-round practice with unlimited access to the range, advanced Toptracer Range technology, and top-notch short game and grass-tee facilities.
When they say unlimited, they mean it: unrestricted access, 365 days a year – rain, hail or shine, weekday or weekend.
Elevate your practice sessions with cutting-edge Toptracer Range technology, analyse your shots in real-time, track your progress, and challenge friends in virtual games. It’s like having your own personal instructor. Get that on-course experience by practising on Yarra Bend Golf’s lush grass tees, complete with Toptracer Mobile technology. The facility’s stunning panoramic views create a serene environment that only makes every swing even more enjoyable. Sign up at yarrabendgolf.com/membership
Moonah Links Golf Resort
Located on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula, just more than an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Moonah Links Golf Resort features first-class facilities and two championship golf courses.
The Open course, featuring a natural stadium layout and wide undulating fairways, was designed by champion Australian golfer Peter Thomson and is the first ever 18 holes built and prepared for a national championship – having hosted the Australian Open in 2003 and 2005. The Legends course, designed by Ross Perrett, is more resort-like in style, taking players on a scenic journey through the moonah trees and onto vast open fairways.
With Moonah Links’ current membership drive, there has never been a better time to become a member. Join and then refer a friend to receive a discount on your 2024-2025 membership subs. Why? Because the club knows there is nothing like a bit of friendly competition. For more information, visit moonahlinks.com.au, e-mail [email protected] or phone (03) 5988 2000.
Sandhurst Club
Sandhurst Club offers unparalleled access to 36 holes of premier golf bliss, featuring the renowned Champions course and the captivating North course. Their fair yet challenging Peter Thomson-designed courses offer pristine year-round conditions and beautiful landscapes, making Sandhurst Club an exceptional golf destination.
Modern clubhouse facilities boast multiple hospitality offerings, including a dedicated members bar, Hillview restaurant and Heydays Pizzeria, which offers a relaxed family-friendly dining experience.
Sandhurst’s seven-day membership already offers exceptional value, with standard inclusions of all competition fees, 4,000 range balls and 10-day booking rights, but if you get in quick you can take advantage of their spring promotion, which includes your choice of five 30-minute lessons with a PGA professional, $500 house credit or a 12-month Health Club pass (valid until October 31). Find out more at sandhurstclubgolf.com.au
GolfBox Clubhouse Membership
RETAIL
Checking your shoulder turn every time you walk past a mirror? Wearing your golf apparel out on date night? If golf has seeped into every part of your psyche, then get rewarded for it by joining The Clubhouse, GolfBox’s loyalty program.
Clubhouse members of the country’s leading online golf retailer earn points every time they make an instore or online purchase at GolfBox, which can be redeemed for discounts on future orders. Membership also grants access to exclusive offers and limited-edition products. Head to the GolfBox online store (golfbox.com.au) to sign up for a free Clubhouse membership – or simply create an account next time you check out – and you’ll earn a cool 400 points as a welcome bonus.
The Vintage Golf Club
Nestled in the picturesque heart of New South Wales’ Hunter Valley, The Vintage Golf Club is a golf gem boasting an 18-hole course designed by the legendary Greg Norman. Renowned as one of the region’s finest play and stay destinations, this challenging and inviting course consistently ranks among the country’s best. Whether you seek leisurely enjoyment or competitive play, The Vintage welcomes all.
Under the expert guidance of Richard Mercer, a PGA of Australia member since 1978, The Vintage Golf Club offers top-notch instruction for its members. The facility is open seven days a week, complete with a fully serviced driving range, practice chipping area and friendly staff to make every round a joy.
Overlooking the lush greens is the award-winning Château Élan, a luxurious resort with a premium golf club, spa and event spaces, all set amid a renowned food and wine region. Just a short drive from Sydney or a quick flight from Brisbane, it’s an easily accessible destination for a stress-free getaway or long-distance membership.
Fine dining awaits at The Legends Restaurant and Spike Bar, where breathtaking views accompany exquisite cuisine. Capping off your round with some of the Hunter region’s finest wines adds a finishing touch to The Vintage Golf Club member experience. For more information on memberships, visit thevintagehuntervalley.com.au
