Tourism Australia believes the dramatic US Masters victory by ‘Friends of Australia’ tourism ambassador Adam Scott will act as a fillip to the promotion of Australian golf tourism on the international stage.
Tourism Australia Managing Director Andrew McEvoy said that Scott’s Masters win was not only an incredible personal achievement, but had the potential to help position Australia as one of the world’s leading golf tourism destinations.
“As a ‘Friend of Australia’, Adam Scott has long been a passionate advocate for golf tourism to our country. Like the rest of Australia, we were delighted to see him hold his nerve so impressively in the play-off.
“With such great advocates as Adam Scott, and helped by our recent partnership with the Great Golf Courses of Australia, we’re well positioned to take advantage of the lucrative global golf tourism market – internationally savvy golf enthusiasts seeking world class experiences. And with six of the world’s top 100 golf course, Australia is primed to welcome them,” said Mr McEvoy.
Boasting a rich golf heritage, Australia’s collection of spectacular golf tracks include works by acclaimed golf architects Dr. Alister McKenzie, Tom Doak, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw.
The partnership with Great Golf Courses of Australia showcases and, for the first time, provides international access to Australia’s greatest courses and private clubs, including the six courses featured by US Golf Magazine in its ‘Top 100’ courses of the world: Barnbougle Dunes, Barnbougle Lost Farm, Kingston Heath, New South Wales, Royal Melbourne and Royal Adelaide.
Tourism Australia’s ‘Friends of Australia’ program is a network of influential people who advocate Australia and Australian tourism at home and overseas. Scott hopes his Masters victory will help inspire more international visitors to travel Down Under and build golf experiences into their holiday itinerary.
Scott lists his own favourite golf holidays in Australia as:
- Melbourne. If you’re able to organise it, play at Royal Melbourne & Kingston Heath golf courses, two of the best in the world. Classic designed courses with great tournament history and a treat to play. Do the trip in January and take in the Australian Open tennis at the same time! Have a great steak at Vlados in Richmond, and take in The Stokehouse at St Kilda Beach for a meal with a view……
- Sunshine Coast. A fantastic part of the world, great beaches, cafes and restaurants at Noosa, Eumundi market is around the corner and the Hinterland areas are a great drive and just beautiful. Golf at Hyatt Coolum, Twin waters and Peregian Springs, in the morning, surf in the afternoon, nice al fresco eatery for dinner….
- Barnbougle, Tasmania. Two classic links golf courses not to be missed. They are as good as anything in the world. The new course at Lost Farm has great accommodation, spa and the like. Down the road to try some wonderful Tasmanian wines, perhaps some lovely vintage Kreglinger champagne?
- Gold Coast. Golf courses everywhere, every imaginable style of accommodation, shopping centres, beaches and a casino. Pretty easy to find plenty to do after or before a round of golf. Sanctuary Cove and Hope Island are good courses to play, stay at the Hyatt Sanctuary Cove and enjoy the village and marina a short walk away. Hire a car to drive to the casino to lose the money you won on the golf course!
