Sport
31 October, 2025
Prestigious award for golf club
WARRNAMBOOL Golf Club has been recognised among Victoria’s finest, taking out the coveted ‘Most Outstanding Club, Facility or Place to Play (regional)’ award at the Victorian Golf Industry Awards.
The presentation ceremony was held on Thursday, October 16, at Southern Golf Club in Melbourne’s renowned sandbelt region.
This prestigious accolade (the top honour of the evening) celebrates excellence in club operations, community engagement, inclusivity, and contributions to the sport across the state.
Representing Warrnambool Golf Club on the night were club president Paul Blain, treasurer Vince Occhipinti, and general manager Marc Tims, who joined hundreds of industry leaders and representatives from across Victoria for an evening of recognition and celebration.
“We’re really proud to receive this award, it reflects how far our club has come in the past few years,” general manager Marc Tims said.
“Warrnambool has become a real community hub, a place where people connect on and off the course.
“Our committee and staff have worked hard to keep improving, to be inclusive, innovative, and sustainable and we’re lucky to do it all in one of the best parts of the state.”
The award is a testament to the dedication and vision of the club’s committee of management, staff, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to create a thriving, welcoming facility that caters to golfers of all ages and abilities.
Over the past 14 months, Warrnambool Golf Club has seen a 20 per cent increase in membership, driven by strong growth in female and junior participation.
Programs such as the Beginner Women’s Get into Golf Program, Get into Golf sessions, and inclusive junior and senior development pathways have made the game more accessible than ever.
Beyond the fairways, the club has also become a vibrant community and social hub, hosting corporate functions, weddings, milestone celebrations, coffee catch-ups, and events such as charity days, wine tastings, and Sunday acoustic sessions (all designed to bring people together).
Golf Australia praised the club’s achievements, stating:
“Warrnambool Golf Club has cemented itself as a thriving hub of community connection, inclusivity, and innovation.
“With strong governance, transparent leadership, and a commitment to staff development, the club is redefining what it means to be a modern golf facility and setting the benchmark for others to follow.”
Club president Paul Blains aid the award was a wonderful recognition of their team’s hard work and commitment over many years.
“It’s fantastic to see our efforts acknowledged by the industry and it’s a great result for Warrnambool,” he said.
