Pakenham Golf Course to shut end of March due to operational challenges
The Cardinia Shire Council is disappointed to announce that from 1 April 2025, Pakenham Golf Course will no longer be managed by Golf Services Management (GSM).
The council has been working closely with GSM to consider options for them to continue managing the course. Unfortunately, there are no financially viable options for both Council and GSM, and they have therefore made the financial decision not to enter into the second term of their contract.
The operations and maintenance of Pakenham Golf Course have been financially challenging. Independent audits recently requested by the Council and GSM identified issues with the irrigation system, and a weed infestation is also impacting playing conditions.
“The course has been severely impacted by an outdated irrigation system, which has prevented the grounds team from being able to adequately water the golf course and keep the winter grasses alive through the warmer months. Additionally, the putting surfaces are infiltrated with a rare weed infestation that cannot be eradicated without fumigation,” says the GSM press release.
We’ve been working closely with industry leaders who’ve advised that significant investment is required at the course due to infrastructure failure not identified under lease arrangements before GSM. Unfortunately, the type of weed on the course cannot easily be treated, and it regenerates, causing an ongoing issue.
This means it’s possible that the only solution is to replace the entire green affected by the weed completely. The course, therefore, requires significant financial investment to fix these issues, bring it back to a playable standard, and make its operations financially viable. Initial investigations estimate $1.7m would need to be spent to fix issues with the irrigation, greens and fairways. The council needs to fully understand the financial impacts and consider the next steps.
GSM will continue managing Pakenham Golf Course until the end of March 2025. The council has contacted groups with reoccurring bookings at the venue. All other bookings are unaffected.
Deep Creek Eco Play space and kickabout area will remain open and available for the community to enjoy.
SOURCE: Cardinia Shire Council
