Golf enthusiasts across Australia have delivered a significant honour to a Perth facility, placing the Whaleback Golf Course among the nation's elite public venues.
A Top 100 Honour for Perth
The Whaleback Golf Course in Parkwood, operated by the City of Canning, has secured the 88th position in the prestigious list of Australia's top 100 public access golf courses. The ranking was determined by a comprehensive survey conducted by Inside Golf Magazine, which combined reader submissions with the insights of an industry expert panel.
This achievement places Whaleback as the 11th highest-ranked facility in Western Australia and, notably, as the top-ranked fully public course in the state. The survey judged courses on critical criteria including design and layout, course maintenance, overall setting and ambience, playability, and the complete golfer experience.
National Leaders and Local Investment
Topping the national list was Tasmania's famed Barnbougle Dunes, with its sister course, Barnbougle Lost Farm, taking second place. Victoria's St Andrews Beach completed the top three.
The recognition for Whaleback follows a period of substantial investment by the City of Canning, which resumed operations of the 18-hole course and double-storey driving range in December 2023. Mayor Patrick Hall highlighted the city's commitment, stating, "We have committed over $12 million into upgrading the golf course, driving range and food and beverage facilities."
A Vision for a Modern Golfing Hub
This significant funding is transforming Whaleback into a contemporary destination. Key projects include the installation of new driving range netting, described by Mayor Hall as "an impressive feat of engineering" that enhances safety. Further upgrades are modernising the hitting bays and adding unique entertainment options.
A major overhaul of the food and beverage offerings is also underway, aiming to create a venue that appeals to both golfers and the broader community. "Being recognised as one of the top 100 public golf venues in Australia is a massive feather in our cap and evidence that we are on the right track," Mayor Hall said.
He concluded, "It is clear that our golfers value the wonderful offering that currently exists, as well the vision of what it will look like once the renovations are complete." This ranking validates the city's strategy to develop Whaleback into a premier lifestyle facility for all residents to enjoy.