Lonsdale development takes shape

LONSDALE Golf Club’s stunning course redevelopment continues at a solid pace as the new 18-hole layout takes shape on the banks of Lake Victoria.
With nine new holes opened for play prior to the COVID-19 shutdown, focus has now shifted to the new clubhouse build and completion of the remainder of the course proper, creating an exciting buzz in the community.
Club president John Christophersen said the new layout was the culmination of vision, hard work and determination stretching back over two decades.
“The fundamental initiative back then was to enable us to drought-proof the course which then moved into the concept of complete redevelopment,’’ he said.
“We were fortunate to have one boundary facing farmland which gave us options, but then we had to ask ourselves how would we finance that.
“What we’ve basically done is pick up the course and move it 400m to the west. We were able to generate revenue through a residential subdivision, allowing us to buy farmland and redevelop.’’
While it may sound simple, Mr Christophersen said the project had many significant challenges.
“There’s been a lot of hard yards from everyone involved in this.
“The membership base has stood by us which is terrific because you have to understand this has been very disruptive.’’
The results so far have to be seen to be believed, with course architects Ogilvy Cocking and Mead delivering a layout that pays great respect to the existing coastal flora that is not only visually stunning but offers a challenging and rewarding round of golf.
Lonsdale general manager Josh Hall said the brief for the new clubhouse, which will overlook Lake Victoria, was to have a multi-functional aspect with family friendly facilities.
It will be complemented by a children’s playground, par three course and practice area.
“What we are building here is something that we hope will attract a wider audience,’’ he said.
“We’ll have two food service areas with restaurant space and a lounge atmosphere, outdoor kiosk so we can look after everyone, not just the golfers.
“It will become a great community facility and we’re very excited about that.’’
Home to some of the best courses in the country, the Mr Christophersen and the Lonsdale team believe their layout will be another compelling reason for players to visit the Bellarine Peninsula.
“We’ll have our own unique personality here, different, and don’t see ourselves as competing with other clubs, rather we will be part of a collective that offers a very interesting and great experience.’’
The club hopes to have 18 holes ready for play in the spring of this year, and at this stage expects the clubhouse to be ready before Christmas, well ahead of Lonsdale’s centenary celebrations in 2022.
It’s a milestone already creating great anticipation as a long held dream edges closer to reality.
“Some members thought they’d never live to see the day when we would have a new course and clubhouse facilities.
“Now everyone is talking about it. The feedback on the new holes prior to the shutdown has been overwhelmingly positive and it will be quite a celebration from opening later in the year through to the centenary in 2022.’’
View the new course flyover at lonsdalegc.com.au