Fleurieu Golf Course: Mount Compass

The Adelaide to Victor Harbour road traverses the immensely popular Fleurieu Peninsula, where the stunning scenery, historic townships and world class wineries are a mecca for thousands of visitors annually.

Mount Compass, is in the heartland of the peninsula, and is a convenient 45 minute drive from the Adelaide CBD. It is the location of the magnificent Fleurieu Golf Course, built on land that had been used for commercial sandmining for decades.

When well-known golf commentator and course designer Brian Crafter visited the area, he was impressed with the possibilities, and convinced the owners that it would be the perfect place for a golf course. They agreed, and Brian Crafter was commissioned to utilise the 72 acre site to design and construct a 6116 metre, par 72 course. Sadly, Crafter died before the construction of the front nine holes began, and the responsibility for the project was entrusted to his son Neil. Work on the first stage was completed in 1995, and the second nine holes were opened in 1998.

The result was an outstanding success, and the course, generally described by experts as ‘challenging’, has attracted golfing enthusiasts from many parts of the world. The design has utilised the natural contours of the land, and many of the 89 pre-existing sand bunkers are scattered throughout the 18 holes. They have been compared to some of the great links courses in Scotland, and can easily trap the unwary golfer.

The Fleurieu Golf Course is meticulously maintained, with superb fairways and greens, and has been acclaimed by novice and professional golfers alike.

A practice driving range and a putting green are both available Wildlife abounds, and it is not uncommon for players to sight an echidna or kangaroo. There is a multitude of birdlife, including black cockatoos, lorikeets, rosellas and a several species of wrens. The surrounding natural bush contains many attractive trees and shrubs, enhancing the beauty of the course.

Visitors can hire all types of equipment, from clubs to buggies and carts, from the fully stocked pro shop, and after a game, the licenced bar and restaurant provides the perfect place to relax. The public restaurant seats 100, and proudly features local produce wherever possible, together with many of the famous McLaren Vale wines. The dining room and bar are on the upper level, and provide spectaculat panoramic views over the course and beyond.

For further information, contact the Fleurieu Golf Course, Arthur Road Mount Compass, phone (08) 8556 8022. Or if you wish to book a tee time, it can be easily arranged by phoning the pro shop, (08) 8556 8500.

 

Text & Photo supplied by Fleurieu Golf Course