Corowa Golf Club to Close After 118 Years
After more than a century as a cornerstone of the local community, Corowa Golf Club has announced it will officially close its gates on Sunday, February 22. The decision ends 118 years of operation for the club, which first opened in 1908.
The closure follows a period of significant financial hardship. Despite exhaustive efforts by the board of directors and financial controllers to secure alternative funding, mergers, or new business models, low patronage levels over several years eventually made the club’s position untenable.
Choosing Stability Over Insolvency
Board member David Harrison emphasized that while the club is currently able to meet its financial commitments, the decision to close was made proactively to protect its integrity.
“Our general manager, Ashley Boyd, has tried every avenue to try to save the club,” Mr. Harrison stated. “But he’s had to draw a line in the sand that we can’t cross or we run the risk of insolvency”.
In a joint letter to members, the board and general manager expressed the weight of the decision, noting that the club has been a significant part of members’ lives and a major employer in the Corowa region.
Final Operations and Commitments
Despite the impending closure, the club has signaled its intent to finish on a high note:
- Daily Operations: There is currently no material change to daily operations leading up to the final date.
- Summer Classic Ambrose: The club remains fully committed to this tournament. The event will proceed as planned, including full hospitality, accommodation, and event management.
- Public Access: The final day for public operations will be Sunday, February 22.
Future updates are expected regarding the winding down of operations and the management of staff employment. For now, the community prepares to say goodbye to a historic institution that has served the region since the early 20th century.
SOURCE: Members newsletter
