Golf review has Maroondah Council considering course revamps

A popular council-run golf course in Melbourne’s outer east could be transformed with “contemporary” attractions including a virtual golf lounge, mini golf and a driving range. But it would come at a cost.

Consultants have recommended Ringwood or Dorset golf course “evolve and diversify” with attractions including mini golf and a virtual golf lounge.

Golfers have teed off on plans to add attractions such as a virtual lounge at the expense of existing holes at a Maroondah golf course.

As part of a review of council-owned Dorset and Ringwood golf courses by consultant WellPlayed, plans to “evolve and diversify’’ the course could include a premium mini golf course, driving range, a virtual lounge and a short-format course.

Virtual golf lounges feature simulators where players can practice or play a round of golf indoors without physically hitting a ball.

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But the consultant warned any of the projects would need to be built on existing holes.

“Given the constraints of available land at each golf facility, any introduction of new facilities at either Dorset or Ringwood will result in the use of land currently used for golf holes,” the report said.

“Evolving and diversifying Maroondah Golf’s facilities, services and experiences will increase visitation and deliver improved financial outcomes.”

But Ringwood’s Allan Jones, who plays weekly, said removing holes for new attractions would turn it into “a mickey mouse course”.

“It’s good to have those other things, but not to compromise the existing holes and layout here,” he said.

Chirnside Park’s Gavin Hayes said he supported any new ideas provided there was still 18 holes.

Ringwood Golf Club president Allan Peake said the club was happy to promote other forms of golf but was against any proposal which would shorten or alter the 18-hole experience.

“If you cut down holes, it means you’re discounting the competition,” he said.

“You can do some of those things without encroaching on the course.”

The council’s director of assets and leisure, Adam Todorov, said the council would consult club members and course users for further feedback on the ideas.
Stage two of the report will be presented in July.