Council has resolved to lease land in Newtown, home to Balyang Par 3 Golf Course, so it can be transformed into a family-friendly and fun golf and entertainment precinct that appeals to a diverse range of people.
Concepts for the site may include expanded and upgraded clubhouse facilities, driving range with state-of-the-art ball tracking technology, mini-golf course, short format golf course and other entertainment features.
As land manager, the City will lease the 33 Marnock Road site for up to 21 years following approval from the Minister for the Environment.
The City will soon undertake a public Request for Proposal process for redevelopment of the land. Proposals will have to include options for a minimum 9 and 18-hole short course and other golf activities.
Tenderers will need to demonstrate how the development will benefit our existing membership base and the broader community long-term and meet certain deliverables, such as:
- Community development, programs and activation to target groups such as women and girls, older adults, all abilities, multicultural backgrounds and school children;
- Community benefit and sustainability, including economic, social and environmental benefits; and
- Provide suitable facilities for The National Servicemen ('the Nashos'), who have been holding regular competitions at the course for 20+ years, and other similar groups and individuals.
Our public engagement inAugust last year attracted 31 submissions; 20 were supportive of the land being leased for redevelopment, six submitters emphasised a desire to retain an 18-hole course while not objecting to a lease, and five made suggestions about how the land should be used. Three submitters appeared before the Submissions Review Panel in March.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM
Balyang Par 3 is in need of a refresh to boost visitation and use of the facility.We're calling for innovative solutions that make the best use of the space as a golf facility while introducing entertainment elements that attract a broader range of community members.
This redevelopment will be an exciting investment in the golfing, lifestyle, recreational and wellbeing needs of our growing community.
Councillor Anthony Aitken
I wish to thank the community members who gave feedback on the lease proposal.Council acknowledges and thanks the efforts of the community who had their say on this project, whether online or in person at the Submissions Review Panel.
This project has generated a lot of interest. The feedback has helped Council develop its future directions for this asset and how we can make sure the site lives up to its full potential.
