Geelong, Clublinks Partner for A$2M Queens Park Revamp

Long-Term Partnership Drives Significant Investment

Queens Park Golf Course in Geelong, Australia, is embarking on its most substantial redevelopment in decades, backed by a new long-term operational agreement. The City of Greater Geelong has partnered with Clublinks, securing approximately A$2 million in private investment for the facility's future.

This 21-year lease, which commenced on October 1, 2026, ensures that Queens Park Golf Course will remain a publicly owned community asset while enabling extensive upgrades.

City of Greater Geelong Mayor Cr Stretch Kontelj OAM emphasised the agreement's benefit to the community, highlighting its role in improving facilities and creating new recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Upgrades to Golfing Infrastructure

The planned enhancements will significantly improve the golfing experience at Queens Park. Playing conditions across the course will benefit from a long-term renewal program and specialised maintenance services, delivered in collaboration with Fertool.

The driving range is set for a contemporary expansion, incorporating advanced TrackMan technology to assist players with practice and analysis. Additionally, the course will introduce a new fleet of 20 EZ-GO golf carts, all equipped with GPS, and the retail space will receive a modern upgrade, according to Clublinks Chief Executive Officer Anthony Lawrence.

Enhanced Hospitality and New Padel Courts

Beyond the golf course, the project includes a comprehensive redevelopment of the pavilion and clubhouse, aiming to create a more welcoming and accessible precinct. Hospitality offerings will see substantial upgrades, with improved food and beverage services and enhanced outdoor social spaces designed for community connection.

Notably, the precinct will also feature four new padel courts, establishing Geelong's inaugural dedicated destination for the fast-growing sport. Mayor Kontelj stated that these additions would broaden the appeal of Queens Park, offering diverse sports and social experiences for the entire community.

Development Schedule and Future Management

Planning and design work for the transformation is expected to commence soon, with procurement and construction slated to occur throughout 2027, contingent on necessary approvals. The upgraded facilities are projected to be fully operational by 2028.

Under the 21-year agreement, Clublinks will manage the day-to-day operations and facility maintenance, including a staged course renewal programme that extends until 2039. Upon the conclusion of the lease term, all upgraded community assets will revert to the City of Greater Geelong, ensuring continued public benefit for future generations.

Implications for Golfers and Regional Operations

For golfers travelling to Victoria, Australia, the revitalisation of Queens Park Golf Course promises an enhanced public facility by 2028, featuring improved playing conditions, modern practice amenities, and upgraded clubhouse services. The introduction of padel courts also diversifies recreational options.

This public-private partnership model, which injects significant private capital into a publicly owned asset, offers a blueprint for other mature golf markets in the Asia-Pacific region.

Municipal courses in countries such as Japan and South Korea, facing similar pressures to modernise and remain competitive without divesting public land, could observe this approach as a means to secure long-term investment and operational expertise.