Welcoming the world’s best golfers

GOLF enthusiasts from near and far are teeing up for an exciting weekend ahead at the Vic Open.

Some of the world’s best golfers have descended on 13th Beach Golf Links for the tournament, which is being held at the Beach and Creek courses for the twelfth consecutive year.

Part of the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia and WPGA Tour Australasia, the Vic Open brings together athletes and spectators for a world-class, family-friendly event, which concludes with the championship trophy presentation on Sunday.

Not only is this event a highlight in the Bellarine’s events calendar, it’s also a beacon of equity and inclusion within the golf community.

The Vic Open is the first tournament of its kind where men and women play in separate competitions at the same time and place, competing for an equal share of the prizemoney.

Inclusivity is at the heart of this event, with the Vic Inclusive Championship running concurrently to promote access for golfers with disabilities.

The City of Greater Geelong is proud to be a partner of a tournament that places such a strong emphasis on equality, and it’s a pleasure to host an event that promotes these values in the Bellarine.

From a spectator’s perspective, the Vic Open also offers an accessible and enjoyable day out for all to enjoy.

Free entry allows spectators to follow competitors around the fairways and witness the action up close.

The open also includes music and food stalls to entertain the whole family and is dog-friendly, so be sure to let your four-legged friends in on the action too.

For an extra stroke of golfing fun, the Australian Long Drive takes place tomorrow night, with players set to send the ball soaring over the 350-metre mark as they strive to out-hit their opponents.

The Vic Open has continued to be a smash hit with residents and guests of the Bellarine and we are lucky to live in a region capable of presenting such fantastic sporting events.

The tournament joins a busy calendar of sports over the summer period, following the recent fanfare and success of both the Festival of Sails and the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race.

Supported by Geelong Major Events, the Vic Open continues to support the local economy, particularly around the Bellarine, having provided $2.1 million in economic benefit in 2024.

It is always a pleasure to see our beautiful peninsula showcased at events like these, with spectators and participants travelling to the area for the four-day event.

I encourage visitors to venture beyond the green and visit some of our wonderful hospitality venues during their stay.

We are spoiled for choice when it comes to our cellar doors, local producers and restaurants in the area, and I’m sure tables will be booking up fast this weekend.

I look forward to seeing the Vic Open prove to be an ace event once again for the Bellarine and Greater Geelong region.

Cr Elise Wilkinson

Connewarre Ward,

City of Greater Geelong