Yarra Golf course superintendent Chris Burgess, CEO Peter Savy and board director Max Currie inspect the works for the brand-new maintenance compound.
Work is officially underway on one of the most ambitious behind-the-scenes projects in Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Club Resort’s recent history, as preparations begin for a state-of-the-art maintenance compound that promises to transform the club’s operations.
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Approved by Federation Council in January, the project will deliver a modern, secure, and purpose-built facility to house ground staff, volunteers, machinery, and essential equipment.
The site, long used as a dumping ground for rubble, construction materials, and other fill, has undergone extensive preparation in recent weeks.
The new driving range and amenities building with a disable unisex toilet.
A major soil screening process has removed debris and recovered usable material, producing more than 10,000 tonnes of sand that will be reused to level and elevate the site above the floodplain.
Once complete, the new compound will feature two large sheds connected by a breezeway, creating more than 2,000 sqms of roof cover—approximately four times the size of the club’s current maintenance facility near the Pro Shop, which has served the club for more than 70 years.
YMGCR aims to redevelop the old upstairs gymnasium into a modern, multi-use recreational area, incorporating a golf simulator with games and entertainment, a sports bar, and TAB facilities.
The new facility will include staff amenities such as a lunchroom, locker room, and toilets for both male and female employees and volunteers.
It will also feature dedicated chemical and fuel storage areas, sand bins, and secure compound fencing.
The facility will support the club’s 22 ground staff and up to 15 volunteers, who maintain Yarra Golf’s 46 holes, practice facilities, and surrounding grounds.
It will also provide much-needed protection for more than $5 million worth of machinery and equipment, much of which is currently exposed to the elements.
Yarra Golf Head Superintendent Chris Burgess said the project was an exciting milestone for the club.
“This project has been on the cards for over a decade, so it’s really exciting to finally get things moving,” he said.
“This project, along with the course improvements and bunker works over the past six months, really shows the positive progress the club is making.”
The project is also a major step forward for health and safety. The current maintenance facility sits in a high-traffic area near the Pro Shop, where heavy machinery regularly moves through spaces used by golfers, members, and visitors.
Yarra Golf CEO Peter Savy said the project would deliver long-lasting benefits across the club.
“The new build will not only be a great facility for our staff, but I think the spin-off benefits for golfers and members will be enormous,” Mr Savy said.
“Clearing out the current facility will make way for new parking spaces for at least 95 more vehicles, along with improved drop-off areas for golf groups.”
Structural drawings for the project are currently being finalised, with the build expected to go to tender in July.
The club hopes building works will begin around September, with the full project expected to take approximately 12 months.
From safer traffic flow and improved parking to better facilities for staff and volunteers, the new maintenance compound represents a major investment.
Other projects
Also currently with Federation Council for Development Approval are plans for a new reception, resort gym, and accommodation support building on the western side of the complex, which will act as a central gateway to all club resort accommodation.
An artist’s impression of how the new reception, gym area and accommodation support building.
“This project will further strengthen our accommodation offering and enhance the overall experience for our guests,” Yarra Golf President Andrew Shell said.
The 12-suite Waratah unit block will undergo full bathroom and kitchen upgrades commencing in June.
The Pro Shop Men’s and Disabled toilets will undergo renovations in June.
YMGCR is keen to redevelop the old upstairs gymnasium into a modern, multi-use recreational area, incorporating a golf simulator with games and entertainment, a sports bar, and TAB facilities.
The project is aimed at broadening the club’s offering and enhancing the overall experience for both members and guests.
“Across all projects, our board and management remain focused on careful planning, financial responsibility, and delivering long-term value for members,” Mr Shell said.
