Transformation Proposed for Port Noarlunga Driving Range

Significant upgrades have been proposed for the Port Noarlunga Driving Range, setting the stage for a major new community recreation hub. The transformation includes state-of-the-art Trackman Range technology, new undercover bays, Australia’s second URBN SHANX mini golf site, and the introduction of Padel, one of the world’s fastest-growing sports, with two Padel courts and plans for two more.

GreenSpace Management has been selected as the preferred party through the City of Onkaparinga’s expression of interest process to co-invest in and deliver the proposed redevelopment. The proposal outlines a long-term partnership that would see GreenSpace manage the site from 1 January 2026 for up to 20 years, creating a vibrant, community-focused hub that blends innovative recreation with the natural seaside environment.

Community Consultation: Have Your Say

The City of Onkaparinga is now seeking community feedback on two key statutory aspects of the proposal, as required under the Local Government Act 1999:

1. The proposed long-term lease of community land for more than five years.
2. The proposed amendment to the Community Land Management Plan (CLMP) for this site.

City of Onkaparinga CEO Phu Nguyen said the proposal represents an exciting opportunity to deliver high-quality, inclusive recreation that supports community wellbeing and the local economy.

“This project aligns strongly with our vision for sustainable, community-focused development,” Mr Nguyen said. “At this stage, we’re seeking feedback on the proposed long-term lease and changes to the Community Land Management Plan. If these are supported, the project will move into the formal planning phase, where further community input will be sought. The proposal showcases how recreation and community spaces can evolve while respecting the natural coastal setting.”

Subject to the outcomes of this engagement, Council will consider whether to proceed with the lease and CLMP amendment in late 2025. If endorsed, GreenSpace Management would then lodge a development application (DA) for the site. The DA process will include a separate public notification period, giving the community another opportunity to provide feedback—particularly on matters such as design, noise, lighting, and opening hours.

A New Era for Golf and Social Play

The proposed redevelopment embraces a low-impact, environmentally sensitive design with a natural colour palette that harmonises with the coastal surroundings. At its heart, it remains a golf-focused facility promoting family and social engagement.

The plan features:

• Trackman-Powered Bays: 24 undercover bays that retain an open-air seaside feel.
• Premium Practice: 6 retained green grass range bays.
• URBN SHANX Mini Golf: A world-class mini golf course, the second of its kind in Australia.
• Padel Courts: 2 courts with master planning for 2 additional courts.
• Social Hub: A welcoming courtyard for gatherings and a diverse range of recreation options designed for all ages and abilities.

GreenSpace Managing Director Peter Vlahandreas said, “Our focus is on creating accessible, modern spaces that bring people together. The proposed range at Port Noarlunga reflects a careful balance between site sensitivity, design excellence and community value.”

Damien de Bohun, General Manager – Clubs, Facilities and Places to Play, Golf Australia, highlighted the project’s significance to the game’s growth.

“Golf is thriving in Australia, with more than 4 million people now enjoying the game in one of its many formats,” he said. “The Port Noarlunga Driving Range is a fantastic example of that evolution, combining technology and social play to create a vibrant community hub where people can connect, be active and have fun. This project perfectly reflects our purpose of more Australians playing more golf and our philosophy that all golf is golf.”

Have Your Say: The Future of GreenSpace

The community’s feedback is crucial!

The current engagement period, open from October 16 to November 10 at onkaparingacity.com/yoursay, will directly inform the Council’s late 2025 decision on the long-term lease and the required amendment to the Community Land Management Plan (CLMP).

If the Council proceeds, GreenSpace Management will file a Development Application (DA). This triggers a second opportunity for feedback through a separate public notification period. This future consultation will focus on detailed project elements like design, noise, lighting, and opening hours.