Another list has been released last month, the Golf Australia Magazine 2017 Top 100 Public Access Golf Courses eligible in Australia. This is not my official list that I am trying to complete, but one in which I do take a bit of interest, even comparing those I have played. Some of those I played dropped off meaning my total played went from 59 to 58.
As to be expected, most of the main contenders have stayed withing the top 10, but there is a new number one, Cape Wickham on King Island. Barnbougle Dunes has remained number one since debuting there not long after opening. Is this a real surprise? Probably not after having rave reviews and also debuting in the World Top 100.
4th hole at Barnbougle Dunes – No longer top dog in the rankings
The other big mover was Ocean Dunes debuting at 4. The back 9 only opened last September, so this is a big move. I wonder how this will fair after bedding in, when the next ranking is conducted. So this sees the previous number one and two, both dropping back a spot. I know one thing for sure, Tasmania has now become a major focus as a public golf access destination, not just in Australia, but the World.
Luckily I will be making the trek in November to King Island to play both courses. In the process I will also be completing my quest of the Top 100.
There are plenty of great golf courses available to the public. Considering there are around 1500 courses eligible, that is a lot who potentially miss out. With any list there is always debate on what should be in and where it is positioned. I’m sure this will still continue here.
For a more in depth view of the latest listing visit Golf Australia Magazine website. To ensure you get the list when it actually comes out, subscribe to the magazine.
Happy golfing.
