Disappointment as Hobart’s Rosny Golf Course remains closed
Golf Australia is disappointed with the outcome of the Clarence City Council’s expression of interest (EOI) and tender process to continue the operation of the Rosny Golf Course.
The council has determined there were no complying tenders for the future management of the course.
Disappointment in closure
Golf Australia CEO James Sutherland said the national body’s priority was to see the more than 100-year tradition of golf being played at Rosny maintained, and the venue continue as a venue for the many thousands of Tasmanians who previously enjoyed the facility as an affordable means of accessing the sport.
“Golf Australia is prepared to do all it can and work with interested parties to see Rosny reopen to the public,” Mr Sutherland said.
“We were disappointed when the council closed the course, even after the aldermen had voted to authorise the general manager to negotiate to keep it open.
“While this latest announcement is a further disappointment, it should not be the end of the process.
“The pandemic has seen a real resurgence in demand for golf, in all its forms and our strategy for the game is clear – we want to support golf courses, facilities and their managers to capitalise on this increasing demand.
“It would be a tragedy for a public course in the heart of the city, where for more than 100 years, generations of Tasmanians have had their first experiences with the game.
“So we encourage the council, the tenderers and all stakeholders to work together to bring golf back to Rosny.”
City Heart plan
Mr Sutherland said Golf Australia believed golf could be maintained at Rosny, even if only on a temporary basis until Clarence City Council developed its proposed long-term City Heart plan.
“We are aware the council has received an exciting presentation for the development of a high-technology, state-of-the-art driving range, mini-golf and hospitality venture on part of the Rosny site, but this should not preclude the reopening of the existing course in the interim,” he said.
“Golf Australia and Golf Tasmania can assist with any short-term reopening issues and will provide promotional and marketing support, as well as the conduct of programs for children and junior players to boost activity on the course.
“This would see the council honour its original decision. It would provide a realistic and sensible solution that can see the course reopen for the enjoyment of thousands of Tasmanians and provide council with sufficient time necessary to develop its City Heart vision.
“We remain keen to work closely with council to find the best ongoing solution based on community desires and consultation,” Mr Sutherland said.
