Luxury Vacation & Golf Tours — Best of AU Golf
Luxury Vacation & Golf Tours — Best of AU Golf
A Century of Excellence in Design and Play
Located in the heart of Melbourne’s famed Sandbelt region, the Commonwealth Golf Club stands as a beacon of golfing heritage and world-class course design. Located in Oakleigh South, Victoria, this historic club has been meticulously shaped by some of the most respected names in golf architecture over its 100-year history. From its founding in 1920 to its latest renovations, Commonwealth has continually evolved while staying true to the principles of strategic and engaging course design.
The Commonwealth Golf Club was established in 1920 on 89 acres of land initially regarded as scrub country. Over the years, this humble beginning transformed into a masterpiece, thanks to a succession of visionary designers. Charles Lane, the club’s devoted captain in the 1920s, played a pivotal role in expanding the course to 18 holes. Lane’s trip to Britain to study the work of legendary architect Harry Colt greatly influenced his designs, resulting in greens and bunkers that seamlessly blend challenge and beauty.
By 1938, Sloan Morpeth, a former New Zealand amateur champion, had undertaken a complete redesign of the course, rebuilding all 18 greens, adding fairway bunkers, and altering tees. These updates laid the groundwork for Commonwealth’s reputation as one of the finest courses in Australia. Over the decades, additional land purchases allowed for further refinements, including the lengthening of several holes.
One of Commonwealth’s most ardent admirers is Tom Doak, the celebrated course designer and author of The Confidential Guide to Golf Courses. Doak’s inclusion of Commonwealth in his list of must-see courses highlights its enduring appeal. In his words, the genius of Commonwealth lies in its adherence to a simple rule: each green is designed to reward approach shots from the correct angle while penalizing those from poor lines.
In 2021, Doak and Brian Slawnik of Renaissance Golf Design began implementing a master plan for the course. Their work, completed in early 2024, involved reconstructing all 18 green complexes and regrassing with Pure Distinction bentgrass and Santa Ana couch. These updates preserved the course’s classic Sandbelt characteristics while enhancing playability and turf quality.
The club has also taken significant steps to address ecological concerns. Designers Harley Kruse and Paul Mogford developed a vegetation plan to remedy past planting mistakes. Clearing unnecessary trees and shrubs has opened up playing lines and improved turf conditions, aligning the landscape with the original vision of the course’s designers. This thoughtful balance of nature and design is a testament to Commonwealth’s commitment to excellence.
Commonwealth’s layout is a masterclass in strategic golf. The course’s greenside bunkering, contoured surrounds, and tilted putting surfaces challenge players to approach from optimal positions. Among the standout holes are several remarkable short par-4s and a celebrated par-3.
The Opening Hole (Par 4, 294m): This dogleg right is heavily bunkered but offers an excellent opportunity to start strong. A well-placed tee shot over the fairway bunkers can set up a birdie chance, while a conservative play ensures a safe par.
The 4th Hole (Par 4, 339m): With multiple strategies available, this short par-4 tests precision and creativity. The green’s left-to-right slope adds complexity, particularly for those approaching from the left side of the fairway.
The 9th Hole (Par 3, 133m): Renowned as one of the Sandbelt’s finest short par-3s, this hole demands careful club selection. Wind conditions and the green’s dramatic slopes, coupled with deep bunkers and shaved run-offs, create a compelling challenge.
The 17th Hole (Par 4, 307m): Like the first hole, the 17th combines risk and reward. Approaching from the right side of the fairway avoids a blind shot over trees, but any misjudgment can lead to steep penalties around the green.
The restoration and enhancements led by Tom Doak and his team have given Commonwealth Golf Club a fresh yet timeless appeal. Its strategic design elements and stunning Sandbelt aesthetics ensure it remains a must-play destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide. With its storied history, innovative updates, and enduring charm, Commonwealth continues to set the standard for excellence in golf course design.
Learn more about Commonwealth Golf Club and plan your visit today!
