Waratah Golf Club Unveils Bold Plan for Lake Macquarie Recreation Hub
In a significant move to enhance community amenities, the historic Waratah Golf Club in Argenton has lodged a development application with Lake Macquarie City Council. The proposal aims to transform the 125-year-old course into a multifaceted recreation hub, targeting families, weekend enthusiasts, and corporate groups in the region's burgeoning north-west.
Proposed Facilities and Minimal Course Impact
The ambitious plan includes constructing an 85-metre netted driving range equipped with 20 simulation bays and lounge suites, alongside an 18-hole mini-golf course. A new bitumen car park with 127 spaces off Lake Road will support the development, situated at the southern end of the 41-hectare site near Club Macquarie and Cockle Creek.
Importantly, the redevelopment is designed to have minimal impact on the existing golf course. Only the 18th hole will be partially altered, with the 334-metre par-four shortened and its green shifted to a position in front of the clubhouse. This adjustment is intended to create a more appealing finishing hole and improve the outlook from the clubhouse deck.
Addressing Community Needs and Growing the Game
Waratah Golf Club general manager Jonathan Towns emphasised that the proposal responds to anticipated population growth in Lake Macquarie's north-western corner. "Not to say there's not a lot to do in Lake Macquarie, but in this particular area, there's lots of houses and retail that could use some of that recreational-type stuff," Mr Towns told the Newcastle Herald.
The initiative aims to diversify the club's offerings and make golf more accessible. "People are time poor, so having shorter versions of golf and more introductory versions of golf too is for people who don't see themselves as ready for the golf course," Mr Towns explained. He noted that driving ranges and mini-golf serve as less daunting entry points for beginners compared to a full course.
Strategic Benefits and Local Context
The redevelopment is seen as a strategic move to bolster the club's facilities for its 1,196 members while attracting new patrons. "Most golf courses are getting towards capacity, so we're making sure we have other forms of golf," Mr Towns added. The weatherproof driving range will also mitigate risks associated with Newcastle's variable weather, providing a reliable year-round option.
Waratah Golf Club, renowned for hosting the 74-year-old W.E Alexander pro-am tournament with past winners like Peter O'Malley and Nathan Green, prioritises preserving its course integrity. "We could have made it [the driving range] longer but we don't want to compromise our golf course. That's No.1 to us," Mr Towns affirmed.
This proposal follows similar netted driving ranges already established at other Lake Macquarie golf clubs in Toronto, Charlestown, and Belmont, highlighting a regional trend towards expanded recreational infrastructure.
