City of Mount Gambier has endorsed a long term lease arrangement for the Blue Lake Golf Club following the completion of community consultation, with overwhelming support for the continued use of the site as a key recreational and community asset.
At its meeting on Tuesday 16 June 2026, Council endorsed a proposed lease structure that provides for a total potential tenure of 20 years providing welcomed certainty for the future of the club.
The land on Grant Avenue, currently occupied by the Blue Lake Golf Club, is under Council's care, control and management and has been leased for recreational use, with a lease that expired on 30 June 2026.
City of Mount Gambier General Manager Corporate and Regulatory Services Jane Fetherstonhaugh said the decision reflects strong community support for the Golf Club and its role in the city.
"The consultation outcomes highlighted the Blue Lake Golf Club as a valued recreational, social and economic asset for Mount Gambier," Mrs Fetherstonhaugh said.
"Council received strong feedback supporting the continuation of the lease and highlighting the importance of providing longer term tenure to enable investment, planning and access to external funding opportunities."
Blue Lake Golf Club President Russell Christian said the lease provides an important foundation for the club's future growth and contribution to the region.
"This new 20-year lease is a landmark moment for the Blue Lake Golf Club. It gives us the certainty to plan with confidence, invest in our people and facilities for the benefit of our members, guests and visitors," Mr Christian said.
"We are incredibly proud of the role we play as a recreation, social and economic asset for our region."
"With around 22,000 people using our facilities each year, this lease ensures we can continue to grow and strengthen that contribution."
A total of 77 submissions were received during the consultation period held from 22 April until 22 May 2026, with feedback demonstrating broad support for the Blue Lake Golf Club's ongoing operations, recent growth and community contribution.
"The lease structure provides the Golf Club with the confidence to plan for the future, while allowing Council to maintain review points to ensure ongoing alignment with community expectations and legislative requirements."
Community feedback also acknowledged the club's contribution to local events, tourism, employment opportunities and the promotion of health and wellbeing through recreational activity.
The lease arrangement is consistent with Council's Community Land Management Plan and complies with the requirements of the Local Government Act 1999, including consideration of all submissions received.
