General News
14 March, 2024
New clubhouse now open
GOLF enthusiasts from far and wide can now enjoy a new multi-million dollar facility in the heart of Warrnambool.
The Warrnambool Golf Club recently opened its modern clubhouse and its members couldn’t be prouder.
“This new facility is just wonderful and it is testament to the work put in by all our members in their endeavours to raise a considerable amount of money towards its build,” general manager Ashlee Scott said.
Originally anticipated to cost around $5.5 million, estimates have now put the project at closer to $7.5 million.
“We had a strategic plan back in 2019 to develop a concept and feasibility study for a new clubhouse,” Ms Scott said.
“We had a design concept early the following year and in February 2021 I submitted a funding request to the federal government for a $2 million grant. Eight months later I was told it was successful.”
The former clubhouse was demolished in June 2022 and work began on the new build in October that year.
“Along with the government funds, our club invested $3.5 million and we’ve been busy fundraising to offset our loan facility,” Ms Scott said.
“We have just over 1,000 members and they are all extremely proud of this new clubhouse.”
While the golf club caters, primarily, for lovers of the sport, it is very much a “community facility to be enjoyed by all.”
“We want everyone to come here and enjoy this beautiful space; it’s a place where people can meet, educate, socialise and network.
“This is a hub for the entire community – where community groups who may not have their own bricks and mortar can gather and utilise our meeting room downstairs.”
Since the building’s construction, the club has gone from strength to strength.
Where it currently employed one full-time staff member and two casuals, it now has the equivalent of five full-time staff.
“Over the past few weeks we’ve had great feedback not only from golfers but also non-golfers who have come to meet with friends, have a drink and a snack and just take in this wonderful view overlooking the course.
“Our course is rated in the top 50 in Australia and that’s something we’re very proud of. Alongside Port Fairy, we now have two premier courses in the district which is perfect.”
The clubhouse doesn’t have pokies but what it does offer is a welcoming, friendly atmosphere to golfers and non-golfers alike.
“The original clubhouse also included a caretakers’ residence on-site. This is our third and we are confident this will now take us well into the future.”
