Luxury Vacation & Golf Tours — Best of AU Golf
Luxury Vacation & Golf Tours — Best of AU Golf
St. Michael’s Golf Club, near Sydney, desperately needed a facelift. Once perfect greens suffered from poa and kikuyu. Seeing the problem, the club launched a massive renovation. They aimed to create a golfer’s paradise.
The initial plan focused on the oldest greens. However, the course deteriorated quickly, forcing a faster pace. The goal: replace bad grass, improve green shapes, and add stylish surrounds.
To realize their vision, the club hired architect Craig Chambers. Chambers transformed the practice hole, showcasing a new design with fresh bunkers and Pure Distinction bentgrass. Impressed, the club approved a full course makeover.
To limit member disruption, they added a par-three hole. This smart move allowed more flexible course care.
The renovation moved forward in stages. Holes 1, 4, 8, 9, 11, and 16 finished the first phase. Holes 2 and 3 completed the second.
Holes 2 and 3 now offer exciting challenges and beauty. The second hole presents a thrilling uphill blind tee shot to a downhill green. The third hole boasts a larger tee, a lower green, and a stunning, bowl-shaped green overlooking the ocean.
A talented team made the renovation happen. Architect Craig Chambers, along with Brad Willis, Darby Muller, and Dave Mewburn, worked hard to bring the vision to life.
Beyond the greens, the irrigation system got an upgrade. Old pipes gave way to advanced Toro sprinklers, ensuring better water flow.
The hard work paid off. New greens with pure bentgrass and more pin positions offer enjoyable putting. Couch grass surrounds add challenge and fun.
St. Michael’s Golf Club is reborn. A revitalized, captivating course awaits golfers.