Victor Harbor Golf Club in South Australia has made available a four-hectare portion of its historic course for long-term lease to developers, aiming to attract proposals for tourist accommodation and upgrades to its aging clubhouse. The land in question is located adjacent to the club’s renowned 9th hole and overlooks the 1st hole, a course feature praised by golf legend Gary Player as one of the finest opening holes globally, with panoramic views across Encounter Bay.
Club president Mark Day indicated the move is part of a broader effort to explore development opportunities that could fund significant improvements to the club’s facilities. The existing clubhouse, constructed in the 1960s, is in need of extensive refurbishment or replacement. “The club has considered various development options over many years,” Day said. “This expression of interest process is designed to gauge market interest and see what kinds of proposals may emerge.”
Potential developments range from modest accommodation pods scattered near the course and driving range to larger-scale projects such as conference centers operated by hotel chains like Novotel or Hilton, possibly including health and wellness facilities. Day noted that if a developer opts not to include the clubhouse in their plans, proceeds from the lease arrangement could be allocated to renovating the current clubhouse.
While some resistance exists among the club’s membership, which numbers over 700, support for the proposal remains high. Approximately 88 percent of members voted in favor of investigating development options. “There’s always a natural hesitation about change, especially within an older demographic,” Day acknowledged. “But that strong approval provides us with a clear mandate to engage members throughout the process, gathering input on preferred options as they are shortlisted.”
The club is currently free of debt but faces financial pressures common to regional golf clubs, as operating costs rise at rates exceeding inflation, while membership fees and green charges generally increase only in line with the consumer price index.
Real estate firm McGees Property is overseeing the expression of interest phase, with agents Rachel Elliott and Tom Rowe reporting early engagement from a variety of developers, accommodation providers, and recreational operators. Rowe described the opportunity as “rare,” highlighting the chance to lease a prime parcel of land with stunning natural surroundings and direct access to a world-class golf course, all without the substantial capital outlay required to purchase the property outright.
The expression of interest process remains open until October 15.