Council offers long-term lease for struggling Growling Frog golf course.

A year after revealing that the Growling Frog golf course in Yan Yean was costing ratepayers $1.5 million a year to operate, the City of Whittlesea (Council) has announced that it is seeking a third-party operator to manage the golf course.

The council is offering a long-term lease (up to 30 years) for the 129-hectare property and seeking expressions of interest from golf course operators or suitable parties.

Described on its website as ‘one of Melbourne’s most-loved public access golf courses’, Growling Frog was designed by Graham Marsh whose portfolio in Australia includes several golf courses that have struggled to remain viable in recent times. North Lakes in Brisbane has sadly announced an impending closure next year, while the second nine holes at Bingara Gorge outside Sydney remain unopened several years after completion. It’s also been reported recently that Paradise Palms in Cairns is for sale, and that approvals for more than 1,000 apartments on the property could lead to the golf course closing or reducing in size.

Despite obvious concerns over the viability of the Growling Frog golf course, the City of Whittlesea Council have set up a designated website to advertise the leasehold opportunity available at Growling Frog.

The following extract is from the GrabtheFrog.com website: 

The City of Whittlesea (Council) built Growling Frog to provide an exceptional golf experience for its residents and visitors to the region. Council is seeking Expressions of Interest from suitable parties to secure a long-term lease of the site (up to 30 years) to help realise Growling Frog’s outstanding potential.

Dotted with majestic River Reds and Ghost Gums, historic bluestone walls, lazing kangaroos, and beautiful views across the surrounding landscape, Growling Frog is one of Melbourne’s most-loved public access golf courses.

Designed by the acclaimed Graham Marsh and located in the heart of one of Australia’s fastest growing municipalities, Growling Frog represents an outstanding opportunity for an astute operator.

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Just 45 minutes from the Melbourne CBD

The 18-hole par 72 course is set on a 129-hectare site of picturesque, gently undulating land and winds its way through spectacular ancient trees with views of the Great Dividing Range. An inspiring setting that provides golfers with a truly unique experience.

Boasting first-class facilities, including a restaurant and café, dedicated driving range, putting green, chipping green and practice bunkers, current and future potential exists to drive additional golfing income, together with a host of complementary income and development opportunities.

 

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