48 Global round-up TEE BOX The Seven Mile Beach golf course in Hobart, Australia – designed by Clayton, DeVries & Pont – is nearing completion ahead of an expected mid-2024 opening. The project is the first newbuild for the firm, with partners Mike Clayton and Mike DeVries leading the design for a group led by Hobart native and tour pro Mathew Goggin. Seven Mile Beach lies on a peninsula to the east of Hobart’s airport and both Tasmania GC and Royal Hobart GC. “To the amazement of most mainland Australians who assume it rains continually in Tasmania, Hobart is the second driest capital in the country,” said Clayton. “Water has always been a critical issue. Having access to suitable groundwater so close to the sea has been a godsend. The days are long for both Mike DeVries, who is crafting the features with his bulldozer, and the crew, who are getting it to the point where a few holes are already reasonably playable. My first excursion with clubs and balls earlier in March gave us a clue as to how the key shots play and feel. From here to the end, it will be a matter of long, hard days – and patience.” Seven Mile Beach on track for mid-2024 opening Photo: Lukas Michel
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