Kingston Council has welcomed the announcement by Rossdale Golf Club that it has terminated its agreement with the developer that proposed redeveloping the site.
The club has advised members that, after carefully considering the status of the rezoning process and its ongoing impact on the club, the board has decided to end the arrangement and explore a range of options for the future.
While the announcement represents a significant development, the club has indicated it is continuing to investigate future opportunities, and no decisions have been made about its longer-term direction.
Mayor Georgina Oxley said the announcement would be welcomed by many people across the community who care deeply about Rossdale Golf Club and its future.
"This is significant news for the many community members who have followed this issue closely and value Rossdale Golf Club's place in our local community," Cr Oxley said.
"The club will continue exploring options for its future and we look forward to learning more as that work progresses."
Rossdale Golf Club has been an important part of Kingston's sporting and community life for many decades, providing opportunities for recreation, social connection and community events.
Over recent years, Kingston Council has consistently advocated for important environmental and community considerations to be properly examined as part of any proposal affecting the site. We have acted to:
- Audit the golf course's significant environmental values, including its extensive tree canopy, wildlife habitat and connection to the internationally recognised Ramsar-listed Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands.
- Seek support from the Victorian Government for independent environmental assessments and highlighted the importance of fully understanding ecology, flora, fauna and biodiversity impacts before any consideration of rezoning.
- Reiterate to the Victorian Government that Kingston's approved housing strategy identifies suitable locations for future housing growth close to transport, shops and activity centres and does not rely on the loss of large areas of open space such as golf courses.
- With the popularity of golf, advocated with Golf Australia that the Government's guidelines for golf course rezonings should be rethought.
"Kingston has worked very hard over a number of years to ensure environmental and community issues were properly considered throughout this process," Cr Oxley said.
"We are pleased that the conversation can look at the future of the club and the opportunities that may exist moving forward. Council stands ready to work constructively with this community-focused club as it considers its next steps and explores future opportunities."
Deputy Mayor Sarah O'Donnell said Council is encouraging community members to support the club while those future options are being considered.
"One of the strongest messages the community can send is through supporting the club," Cr O'Donnell said.
"If you've ever thought about becoming a member, booking a round of golf, enjoying a meal at the clubhouse or hosting a function at Rossdale, now is a great time to do it.
"Rossdale has been an important part of our community for many years, and we encourage residents to support the club as it plans its future."
