South Lakes Golf Club is about to change how people experience golf on the Fleurieu. The club has teamed up with SHANX to bring a premium, after-dark mini golf experience to Goolwa.
It’s designed to attract everyone from weekend tourists to families, kids and retirees. It’ll be the most amazing course in the southern hemisphere, and it’s not another novelty course with spinning clowns or windmills… the new mini course will still feel like real golf, just in a compact form.
The course will open in time for the summer holidays and will be fully floodlit for twilight and night-time play. Work is already underway to shape the nine-hole layout, which will be located just near the main clubhouse. Club Manager Chris Bailey says it’s been a long time coming and part of a bigger vision.
“We started with a master plan for the future of the club,” he says.
“We realised we needed to look at alternate revenue streams, but keep it based around golf, because that’s what we do best.”
Chris says reports from Golf Australia helped guide the club’s thinking. More Australians are playing mini golf or hitting driving ranges than ever before. And in places like Goolwa, which has seen a spike in both tourism and new residents, the demand for fun, casual activities is growing fast.
“The goal isn’t just fun. It’s about opening up the game to new audiences.”
Chris says mini golf is one of the best ways to introduce people to golf without pressure. It helps juniors, families and beginners feel comfortable. He also sees strong potential for older players who can no longer walk a full course.
“This will be used by everyone,” he says.
“Older locals, kids, NDIS groups, even care facilities. They can all get involved. That’s what’s exciting about it.”
There are also plans to make the experience social and seasonal. Think themed nights around school holidays, birthday parties, corporate events, Christmas or Halloween. There could be live acoustic sets on the deck. And with footy and sport played on screens in the clubhouse and food being served, it becomes more than just a game, it’ll become a night out.
Chris says it will also be a big boost for hospitality at the club. More people through the doors means more diners, more drinks and more connection. He wants it to feel like a place people can drop in after work, play a round with mates, then settle in for the night.
“Golf has found its fun again, and this is our way of being part of that and inviting everyone to join us,” added Chris.
South Lakes Golf Club
Where: Billabong Road, Goolwa
For more information, click here.
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