James O’Brien says the Woodend Golf Club flies in the face of the elite, golfing archetype – and is still seeking council funding to upgrade its dilapidated club rooms after years of campaigning.
He’s the secretary, and wants to make sure the $470,000 allocated in Macedon Ranges council’s 2022-23 draft budget is definitely on the way.
“I want to be absolutely clear that whilst this is a significant amount of money, it is the absolute minimum required to ensure that the building complies with contemporary building codes and in particular, disability access requirements,” Mr O’Brien said.
The club was established in 1908 and now has about 230 members, many of whom live locally.
Mr O’Brien said the clubhouse, built in the 1950s-60s, was “coming to the end of its life”, and undermined efforts to expand its use.
“We’ve got a beautifully maintained and presented golf course but the clubhouse lets us down – with this very modest upgrade, it will ensure that we’ve got a course that we can all be proud of, and one that members and businesses will be comfortable in,” he said.
“We get lots of visitors coming from Melbourne, because we’re close to Melbourne.
“It’s regarded as one of the most picturesque courses in close proximity to Melbourne, it’s a wonderful place to visit. We drive lots of local economic activity and it makes a lot of sense to deliver this upgrade.”
It is anticipated the final budget will be presented to council for adoption at a meeting on June 22.
