More world-class golf for Tasmania?

2 December 2011

The Australian state of Tasmania, home to the acclaimed Barnbougle Dunes resort, could see the construction of another world-class seaside golf course, if plans announced this week come to fruition.

A foundation launched by Tasmanian professional Mat Goggin wants to develop a course at Seven Mile Beach, close to the Hobart airport, and has enlisted Barnbougle co-designer Mike Clayton and his partner Geoff Ogilvy to create the course.

Tasmania’s state government has already expressed support for the project. Minister for Economic Development David O’Byrne recently inspected concept plans for the course. “We know golf tourism is a huge opportunity for Tasmania, and fits well with our clean and natural reputation,” he said. “Indeed, the National Tourism Association recently said the three most exciting new products on the Australian market are all in Tasmania – including Barnbougle. That’s a wonderful achievement, and we’re keen to work with golf tourism developers to talk about fresh ideas and opportunities.”

The Goggin Foundation says the project would use eco-friendly green buildings and sustainable infrastructure. The concept includes using solar panels and wind power, rain water collection and treatment, and on-site sewerage treatment and sewer mining techniques.

But some local bodies are not convinced. Peter McGlone, director of the Tasmanian Conservation Trust told the Mercury, the state’s best selling newspaper he felt the government was ‘abandoning the principles of transparency and balance’ by expressing support for the project at this stage. “The government is putting the development of an exclusive resort ahead of the many people who enjoy the area for walking, horse riding, orienteering, cycling, dog walking and picnics,” he told the newspaper.