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Commonwealth Golf Club

Undergoes Restoration by Renaissance Golf Design

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As if the world-class golf in the Sandbelt needed another reason to visit, course architecture enthusiasts and golf travelers alike have a new reason to visit Melbourne with Commonwealth Golf Club’s recent renovation by Renaissance Golf Design. Under the guidance of Tom Doak’s team, the club embarked on a restoration-inspired transformation, aiming to revive the strategic brilliance of its classic design while refining playability and aesthetics.

A Thoughtful Two-Phase Restoration

The first phase, completed in 2022, focused on the northern section of the course, reshaping six greens (holes 2-5, 13-18), expanding fairways, adding new bunkers, and adjusting tee orientations to enhance strategic options.
The second phase saw even more dramatic changes to the southern section, particularly at holes 7, 10, and 12. Greens were redesigned and positioned closer together to create a more seamless and interconnected layout with also mirror the paired greens in the northern portion of the course.

Signature Hole Highlights

The renovations have reintroduced classic shot values while refining the challenge for today’s game:

  • 7th Hole: A return to its original left-to-right orientation, with a single bunker guarding the right side and a swale awaiting errant shots to the left.
  • 10th Hole (Par 5): A lengthened green by 20 yards, requiring golfers to navigate approach bunkers before attacking a horseshoe-shaped putting surface, complete with a deep front-middle bunker.
  • 12th Hole: A treacherous green protected by deep bunkers on both the front-left and front-right, while a ridge influences putts toward the front or off the back-left corner.
  • 1st Hole: The short par 4 has been reimagined to balance historical integrity with modern strategy, now playing at 270 yards, closer to its original length from decades past.

Additionally, severe slopes on holes 6 and 7 have been softened to allow for a greater variety of pin placements and more enjoyable play.

A Focus on Sustainability & Aesthetics

Another key component of the Commonwealth Golf Club restoration was a comprehensive vegetation plan. Over the years, well-intended but problematic planting had led to excessive shade, moisture competition, and limited shot options. Therefore, by selectively removing non-native trees and introducing native vegetation, the course has opened up sightlines and seamlessly integrated with its natural environment. Consequently, these efforts have enhanced visual appeal, strategic options, and sustainability—reducing water usage and improving long-term turf health.

With its historical restoration, strategic enhancements, and stunning natural beauty, Commonwealth Golf Club has become an even more compelling stop for golfers visiting the Sandbelt region. Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of its reimagined greens, the rich history, or the picturesque native landscape, this renovation has solidified its status as a must-play for any serious golf traveler.

Click below for more details on Commonwealth Golf Club and how to include it in your next golf vacation. From there, you can contact us to start planning your tailor-made golf getaway!

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