Cardinia Shire Council will invite expressions of interest for the future management of the Pakenham Golf Course at Deep Creek Reserve, Pakenham.
At the Council meeting on Monday 17 November, Council endorsed a recommendation to undertake the EOI process, with the option for a long-term lease arrangement. This process will test the market and invite proposals for the site's future use, including golf and alternative proposals in line with the permitted zoning.
The Pakenham Golf Course Feasibility Study undertaken earlier this year considered a number of options relating to the future of the golf course, including the continuation of golf or the use of the site as open space. The findings of the feasibility study were shared with the community and feedback invited to help Council understand community views.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik said the community engagement process revealed support for the continuation of golf.
"Through the engagement process, 82% of participants told us that continuing golf would meet community needs well or very well, with reasons including local demand for golf, as well as recreational, health and wellbeing benefits," Mayor Kowarzik said.
"Council will now go to market and invite interested parties to submit an expression of interest that details their proposed management model, lease term and investment level. We're asking applicants to demonstrate how they'll operate the site in a financially sustainable manner and the benefits that will be provided to the community."
Mayor Kowarzik said the EOI process would help Council gauge the appetite of the market and help to inform future decision making for the site.
"It's important to note that no long-term decisions regarding Pakenham Golf Course have been made yet. This process will help Council to test the market and assess the viability of golf at the site."
The EOI process is expected to commence early next year.
All three golf options identified in the feasibility study include continuing the operation of the function centre and cafe. Cardinia Environment Coalition continues to operate from the site.
Community members can also continue to visit the Deep Creek Eco Playspace, wetlands and kickabout area and use the public toilets. To help activate the site during the summer season, mobile coffee vendors have been invited to apply for a permit to operate on-site, and the function space will be available for bookings by community groups on week days during business hours. While the cafe, bistro, and pro shop remain closed, community groups that book the spaces are welcome to arrange their own catering.
