GCTUK Global Edition – Club Culture & Innovation Down Under – With Mike Orloff
In this episode, Leighton Walker is joined by Mike Orloff from Golf Industry Central for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of club life in Australia and New Zealand. Together, they explore what clubs in the region are doing well, with a particular focus on cultural dynamics and modern approaches to governance. The focus is largely on the clubs in the middle and their need to develop and innovate.
One standout example of innovation is Palm Valley Gold Coast in Queensland, a cutting-edge redevelopment of The Club at Parkwood Village that’s pushing the boundaries of traditional club offerings. Beyond championship golf, Palm Valley is making waves—literally—with the addition of a state-of-the-art wave pool, blending lifestyle, leisure, and sport in a way that reflects the future of resort-style club experiences.
The conversation also highlights the upcoming Field Trips initiative—an exciting series of immersive experiences designed to showcase best practices and spark new ideas. The series will kick off in Asia in April and expand to include destinations in the USA and New Zealand, offering club professionals a unique opportunity to attend education events and connect with peers from around the world.
It’s an engaging and informative listen with plenty of takeaways for anyone interested in the business of golf, hospitality, and club leadership.
