WA Golf Shines: 12 Courses in Australia's Top 100 Public List

Western Australia's public golf offerings have received a massive national endorsement, with a dozen local courses securing coveted spots inside Australia's top 100 public golf courses list for 2025.

WA's Golfing Elite Takes Centre Stage

The prestigious rankings, compiled by the respected Inside Golf magazine, assessed venues nationwide on criteria including course design, playing conditions, overall ambience, and the complete golfer experience. This rigorous evaluation has firmly placed the state on the national golfing map.

Topping the WA contingent is the celebrated Joondalup Resort, which achieved an incredible double feat. Its renowned Quarry/Dune 18 layout was ranked an impressive eighth in the entire nation, while its Quarry/Lake course also claimed the 25th position, making Joondalup the only Western Australian venue to feature twice on the exclusive list.

The resort's dramatic quarry holes, with their steep walls and challenging bunkers, have become such a drawcard that the visiting English Cricket Team made a special trip to play there during The Ashes tour.

Regional Powerhouses and Surprise Packages

The strength of WA's regional golf scene was also on full display, with two heavy-hitters appearing consecutively on the list. The Cut in Mandurah carved its way to 20th position, boasting a stunning coastal links layout where wind is a constant and formidable challenge. Hot on its heels in 21st place is the Kalgoorlie Golf Course, a true Goldfields gem that hosts the professional WA PGA Championship and is famous for its iconic holes like the 'Midas Touch' and 'No place for a Lady'.

Another notable performer was Links Kennedy Bay, which secured 30th place. The course, which recently reopened after significant redevelopment, proudly bills itself as the "only true links golf experience in WA".

City Investment Pays Off with Unexpected Recognition

Perhaps the most heartening story to emerge from the rankings is that of Whaleback Golf Course in the City of Canning. The popular public track, which sees high foot traffic, defied expectations to claim the 88th spot. This recognition is a direct result of the city's commitment, with Mayor Patrick Hall highlighting a major investment exceeding $10 million into upgrades for the course, driving range, and facilities since the City took over operations in December 2023.

This significant achievement places Whaleback ahead of some of Perth's more established courses, including Wembley and the celebrity-favoured Araluen.

Despite the strong representation, the list did feature some notable omissions that are sure to raise eyebrows among local golfing communities. Popular Perth courses like Collier Park Golf Course in Como, Hammersley Golf Course, The Vines (Lakes), and the highly-regarded Albany Golf Club in the regions were all absent from the final rankings.